St Julian's School

The school is a not-for-profit institution that emphasizes intellectual and emotional growth, critical thinking, and citizenship. Its 'Shaper Profile' guides the development of students to be compassionate, curious, collaborative communicators who act as global citizens. The school's strategy is built on three pillars: Teaching & Learning, Wellbeing, and Organisation for Learning.

The school offers two primary pathways: the English Curriculum (National Curriculum for England) leading to IGCSEs and the IB Diploma or Career-related Programme, and the Bilingual Curriculum (Portuguese National Curriculum) for ages 6 to 15, which integrates into the English curriculum for final years. The school is authorised by the IBO and the Portuguese Ministry of Education, and it is an accredited member of COBIS and the Council of International Schools (CIS).

St. Julian’s is a top-ranked international school in Europe, recognised by Spear’s and Carfax. Students achieve high standards in IGCSEs and the IB Diploma and Career-related Programmes, with graduates gaining access to world-class universities globally. The school’s alumni include leaders in fields such as science, politics, entrepreneurship, and the arts.

The school provides pastoral care and learning support overseen by the Deputy Head and a dedicated student support team. This includes counselling services, safeguarding teams, and support for students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). The school emphasizes a happy, safe, and inclusive environment, supported by a structured professional learning culture for staff.

The admissions process involves five steps: registering interest, booking a tour, submitting a formal application with a €250 fee, completing an assessment (for Year 4 and above) and interview, and receiving a decision from the Head. The school operates on a selective basis, and due to high demand, early application is advised. Upon acceptance, families must sign a Parent School Agreement and pay a €750 registration fee and a €5,000 capital levy. The school also offers a community scholarship programme for students in the Portuguese state system to join in Year 11.

The academic year is divided into three terms: Autumn (September to December), Spring (January to March), and Summer (April to June). The school observes various Portuguese public holidays and includes scheduled half-term breaks in each term. The school day typically runs from 8am to 5pm during term time.

Located on a campus between Lisbon and Cascais, the school features an 18th-century palace, gardens, woodland, and sports facilities. A €50 million, five-year 'Second Century' building project is scheduled to begin in Summer 2026 to renovate historic buildings and add contemporary, specialised learning spaces. The campus is accessible by car and is a short walk from the Carcavelos train station.

The school offers a wide range of activities through its Wilder Life Programme (WLP), including sports such as rugby, football, cricket, and athletics. Other opportunities include the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, Model United Nations, music tuition, drama, and various clubs and societies. The school also engages in charity and community projects, and younger students participate in Forest School activities.