Published on and written by Cyril Jarnias
Situated in the middle of the Atlantic, Madeira is attracting more and more foreign families looking to combine quality of life, spectacular nature, and an international-level education. The island doesn’t have the multitude of private schools found in Lisbon or the Algarve, but it does host a few solid international schools, mostly concentrated in Funchal, capable of offering both a British track and an International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum.
This article breaks down the main schooling options, their advantages, limitations, and costs, based on the most recent data. Its goal is to help families identify the school that best fits their lifestyle and their children’s needs, beyond a simple ranking.
Understanding the International School Landscape in Madeira
The first thing to keep in mind is that the international school offering on the island remains limited compared to the mainland. While Portugal has at least 51 international schools spread mainly across Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve, Madeira has only a handful, including two major institutions that consistently appear in specialized rankings: The International School of Madeira (ISM) and International Sharing School – Madeira (ISSM). A third player, Brave Generation Academy (BGA), rounds out the picture with a hybrid and highly flexible model.
Madeira’s main international schools are located in or near Funchal, making them accessible to expat families in the capital. They offer instruction primarily in English, with variable Portuguese input, and are based on recognized international programs such as the Cambridge British curriculum and the International Baccalaureate.
There is a downside to this. On one hand, tuition fees are significant, although prices in Madeira are generally lower than those at major international schools in Lisbon or the southern coast. On the other hand, intentionally small class sizes create high demand for spots, especially at key transition points (end of primary, middle school, high school). Hence the importance of applying early—sometimes even before the move is confirmed.
Annual tuition fees in Madeira range from approximately €5,300 to €13,140, depending on the child’s age and chosen curriculum.
The International School of Madeira (ISM): The British and Bilingual Choice
The International School of Madeira is often cited as the go-to option for families seeking a British-style setting for young children, without giving up integration into Portuguese society.
Location, Profile, and Philosophy
The school is located in Funchal, with an official address at Calçada do Pico 5, in a central and easily accessible area by car or school transport. The school has been around since the late 1990s, boasting nearly three decades of experience, making it a well-established player in the local educational landscape.
ISM presents itself as a private international school with a human scale and a strong community feel. The total student body is around one hundred, representing over 20 nationalities. Classes are intentionally small, typically between 10 and 12 students, with a maximum of 16 depending on the source. This setup allows for individualized attention, regular follow-up, and close ties with families.
The pedagogical approach is modern and student-centered, with an emphasis on encouragement, self-confidence, and the ability to “inspire children to go further,” as the school puts it.
A Truly Bilingual Cambridge Curriculum
The major distinguishing feature of ISM, compared to many so-called bilingual schools, is the genuinely balanced emphasis placed on English and Portuguese from primary school onward. The school follows the Cambridge Assessment International Education framework, with two main components:
– Cambridge International Early Years for ages 3–5
– Cambridge Primary for ages 6–10
From Grade 1 (CP), instruction is structured to give comparable time to English and Portuguese. Core subjects (math, science, etc.) are taught in both languages, creating a genuine bilingual track rather than just additional language classes.
This setup attracts both Portuguese families wanting strong English exposure and expats who want their children to gain solid oral and written Portuguese skills. Many parents note that this dual competence later gives students the option to pursue higher education in Portugal or abroad.
Grade Levels, Student Age, and Limitations
ISM primarily enrolls children from ages 3 to 10, from nursery through primary (Nursery to roughly Year 4). Some sources mention an extension to higher levels, even up to Grade 12, but the most consistent information points to a school mainly focused on elementary education.
In practice, this makes it an excellent launchpad for early schooling, but requires families to plan for a school change when entering middle/high school. Many then opt for International Sharing School – Madeira to continue with IB, or for Portuguese public/private schools if the family plans to stay long-term on the island.
School Life, Activities, and Atmosphere
Parent testimonials highlight the warm atmosphere, the quality of relationships with teachers and management, and the caring discipline that structures school life. Younger students get daily outdoor playtime, often cited as a plus in an island environment where the climate permits it almost year-round.
Discover the activities and services offered by ISM to enrich the student experience
Varied programs including art, music, and physical education to complement the curriculum.
Optional afternoon workshops such as swimming, Zumba, piano, and others depending on the year.
Cafeteria offering quality menus appreciated by parents, with water available at all times.
The most common criticism, from some Portuguese-speaking parents, is the feeling that Portuguese could be even further strengthened. The school has, however, adjusted certain aspects of its program over the years to address this feedback.
Tuition Fees and Financial Terms
ISM’s fees fall at the lower end of the range for Madeira’s international schools, making it a relatively affordable option in this market segment. For the 2025–2026 academic year, the announced amounts are approximately:
| Level / Approximate Age | Cambridge Program | Indicative Annual Fees* |
|---|---|---|
| Nursery (3–4 years) | Early Years | ≈ €5,300 |
| Grade 4 (9–10 years) | Cambridge Primary | ≈ €5,900 |
*Historical sources also mention lower ranges (€2,750–€3,300), though it’s unclear whether these are older rates or special arrangements. The most recent figures are around €5,300–€5,900.
In addition to tuition, there are various administrative fees:
| Fee Type | Indicative Amount |
|---|---|
| Application fee (new student) | €250 (one-time) |
| Enrolment fee (registration) | €350 (one-time) |
| Annual administration fee | €65 / year |
| Re-enrolment fee (returning) | €80 / year |
Families should also budget for potential expenses for certain extracurricular activities, clubs, or additional services.
Admission Process and Operations
ISM accepts applications year-round, which is a plus for expat families whose relocation dates don’t always align with the September start. The typical procedure includes:
To enroll a child in a specialized school, the procedure generally involves several steps. First, fill out an online application form. Then, provide the child’s previous school reports and records, along with identification documents. If relevant, medical or psychoeducational reports should also be attached. The school often encourages families to visit the premises. Finally, depending on the child’s age, an assessment or a trial day may be arranged to complete the admission process.
The admissions team commits to getting back to families within five working days. Once the application is accepted, the school issues an offer letter summarizing the remaining steps, including payment of an enrolment fee and completion of paperwork. Registration is considered final only after full payment of due fees.
The general terms state that the school accepts only students whose needs can reasonably be met with available resources. If a child requires special educational support beyond the ordinary provision, the cost is borne by the parents. In case of withdrawal, the request must be made in writing and approved by the school; no refund is given on tuition fees already paid, including for medical reasons.
For British or English-speaking families wanting a clear connection to the Cambridge system while opening the door to local integration, ISM appears as the most logical option on the island for ages 3–10.
International Sharing School – Madeira (ISSM): The IB Continuum from 3 to 18
International Sharing School – Madeira is the other major pillar of the island’s international offering. Where ISM focuses on primary education, ISSM covers the entire school journey, from early childhood to the high school diploma, following the complete International Baccalaureate (IB) continuum.
A Unique History: From “British School” to IB School
The history of ISSM dates back to 1980, with the founding of the British School of Madeira by Susan Farrow, then located at the British Country Club in Funchal. At the time, the school primarily catered to children of British residents and Portuguese students seeking a British-style education. Over the 1990s and 2000s, strong demand led to a series of expansions and official recognition by the Secretaria Regional de Educação da Madeira, the British consulate, and the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA).
In 2006, the school moved to its current location at Caminho dos Saltos, and in 2013 it began a major transition: the gradual adoption of the IB curriculum through the school’s acquisition by the Sharing Foundation and its renaming to Madeira Multilingual School. After several years of application, the school obtained IB World School status in 2017, becoming one of the few schools in the country to offer multiple IB programs.
Today, under the name International Sharing School – Madeira, the institution is fully accredited by the International Baccalaureate Organization (IB code 050577) and offers the three IB programs: PYP, MYP, and DP.
Location, Campus, and Learning Environment
ISSM is located at Caminho dos Saltos 6, 9050-219 Funchal. The school has invested heavily in infrastructure modernization, with the official opening of a new campus in January 2026, resulting from a €15 million renovation of a historic former seminary (“Seminário da Encarnação”). The design of the spaces was entrusted to the Danish studio Rosan Bosch and Portuguese architects, to create a flexible, open environment designed for movement, curiosity, and collaboration.
Classrooms are organized into flexible zones rather than rows of desks: group work areas, reading nooks, project and prototyping zones. This configuration reflects the internal educational philosophy that emphasizes autonomy, creativity, soft skills, and learning through real-world projects.
Sharing Pedagogical Concept
A Complete IB Continuum: From Kindergarten to Diploma
ISSM is the only school in Madeira offering the full International Baccalaureate continuum, from approximately ages 3 to 18. The pathway is structured as follows:
| IB Program | Approximate Age Range | Levels / Grades Covered |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Years Programme (PYP) | 3–11 years | Nursery to Grade 5 |
| Middle Years Programme (MYP) | 11–16 years | Grades 6 to 10 |
| Diploma Programme (DP) | 16–18 years | Grades 11 and 12 |
In the PYP, children benefit from a bilingual environment from age 3. English is the main language of instruction, but Portuguese is worked on daily, giving students a strong linguistic foundation before entering the MYP. From middle school onward, subjects diversify considerably: languages (English, Portuguese, French, Spanish, German, Mandarin), integrated sciences, Individuals & Societies (history, geography, economics), mathematics, design, arts (music, visual arts), physical and health education.
At the DP level, students prepare for a diploma recognized by universities worldwide. Subjects offered include, among others, Language and Literature (in English, Portuguese, Spanish, German, Chinese, French), sciences, mathematics, theater, visual arts, physical education, and interdisciplinary projects.
Student Profile, Languages, and International Atmosphere
The school community brings together over 30 nationalities, with some sources mentioning more than 35, with an approximate balance of 40% Madeiran families and 60% international families. Overall enrollment remains modest (between 200 and about 250 students depending on the period), allowing class sizes to be capped at 18 students.
English is the main language of communication, both in teaching and in administrative exchanges with families. However, the school offers language support in Portuguese, Mandarin, Russian, German, French, and Spanish where possible. Each child receives a detailed language profile upon admission to identify their mother tongue and proficiency in other languages, allowing tailored support (notably through an English as a Second Language program).
Activities, Technology, and Well-being
ISSM clearly leans innovative and tech-forward. The school is a partner of Lego Education and Microsoft Education, and introduces tools like Lego robotics or Minecraft Education in STEAM activities from age 5. The idea is not just to familiarize children with digital tools, but to use them to enhance problem-solving, creativity, and collaborative work.
Outside of class, the school offers a very wide range of activities: coding clubs, robotics, chess, sailing, choir, debate, various sports (basketball, handball, soccer, racket sports, volleyball), language clubs (Mandarin, Portuguese, English), and math workshops. Civic engagement is also encouraged through beach cleanups, partnerships with professional bodies (lawyers, doctors), participation in Model United Nations, and math competitions.
Student well-being is emphasized: close supervision, prevention of academic stress, and an environment perceived as caring and inclusive. The school has received international recognition, including a “Learning Community of the Year 2023” award and a presence in the top European schools highlighted for innovative approaches.
Tuition Fees and Cost Structure
ISSM is clearly at the high end of Madeira’s offering, with tuition fees higher than ISM’s, but in return for a broader educational spectrum (3–18 years) and significant material resources.
For the 2025–2026 academic year, the official fee schedule is as follows:
| Level / Program | Age or Grade | Annual Fees 2025–2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Early Years | 3–4 years | €5,880 |
| PYP – Grade 1 | ≈ age 6 | €7,110 |
| PYP – Grade 2 | ≈ age 7 | €7,570 |
| PYP – Grade 3 | ≈ age 8 | €8,040 |
| PYP – Grade 4 | ≈ age 9 | €8,350 |
| PYP – Grade 5 | ≈ age 10 | €8,500 |
| MYP – Grade 6 | ≈ age 11 | €9,120 |
| MYP – Grade 7 | ≈ age 12 | €9,740 |
| MYP – Grade 8 | ≈ age 13 | €10,200 |
| MYP – Grade 9 | ≈ age 14 | €10,820 |
| MYP – Grade 10 | ≈ age 15 | €11,280 |
| DP – Grade 11 | ≈ age 16 | €12,520 |
| DP – Grade 12 | ≈ ages 17–18 | €13,140 |
Fees include essential school supplies: textbooks, stationery, access to digital platforms, and art materials. From Grade 4 onward, students must have their own laptop or tablet.
Two other costs to consider:
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Enrolment fee (new student) | €600 |
| Renewal fee (current student) | €300 |
Extracurricular activities (sailing, robotics, dance, etc.) are generally not included in the base fees. Families should also budget for meals, possible school transport, and one-off costs related to educational trips or special events.
Admissions, Selectivity, and Target Profile
ISSM accepts applications year-round, but the school stresses the need to plan ahead, especially for middle and high school. Since classes are capped at 18 students, waiting lists are not uncommon. The enrollment process is particularly structured, using the OpenApply platform.
In summary, it consists of several steps:
Discover the key steps to apply to our institution, designed to assess each candidate comprehensively and fairly.
Start your application by filling out the interest form available on our online platform.
Provide the required documents: school reports, transcripts, specialized evaluations, and copies of ID.
Family meeting for Grades 1 to 7, and individual interview for candidates from Grade 8 onward.
Possible immersion day or classroom observation for in-situ assessment.
Assessment of English and math skills, tailored to the candidate’s grade level.
In-depth analysis of the application by our team, especially for non-native English speakers in MYP 4 and above.
The final admission decision rests with the head of education, based on evaluations from program coordinators and learning support specialists. Students are placed by age as of December 31 of the entry year, taking into account their previous schooling.
The school states it does not have the necessary resources to enroll students with severe mental, emotional, or physical disorders, or significant learning difficulties. Priority is given to siblings of current students, and the school maintains a balance of nationalities within classes.
If a level is full, a waiting list system is implemented, with a non-refundable registration fee of €600. If a spot opens up, this amount is then applied to the enrolment fee.
Withdrawals must be notified in writing a full trimester in advance, otherwise the next trimester will be charged. The school publishes a precise calendar of deadlines for withdrawal notices.
What Type of Family Profile?
ISSM clearly targets families planning a long-term international pathway for their children, with real continuity from primary through the IB diploma. It’s a particularly consistent option for those who move frequently between countries, or for parents aiming for universities outside Portugal, notably in the UK, the US, or other European countries where the IB diploma is highly valued.
The higher costs and increasing academic demands in MYP and DP require realistic consideration: the child should be comfortable in an English-speaking environment and ready to commit to a rigorous curriculum.
Brave Generation Academy (BGA): The Hybrid and Self-Paced Option
Alongside the two major structured schools of ISSM and ISM, Brave Generation Academy occupies a somewhat unique place in Madeira’s landscape. It’s not a traditional school, but a learning “hub,” designed for middle and high school students who want a more flexible, highly self-directed and personalized pathway.
Concept and Operation
BGA operates as a network of hubs spread across Portugal and abroad, including one in Funchal. Students, primarily of secondary and higher education age, work on accredited online content (mainly British or Portuguese type), which they can follow at their own pace. They are locally supported by “learning coaches” rather than traditional teachers, the idea being to guide students in managing their time, goals, and projects.
The model is based on a combination of:
– in-person sessions at the hub, for guidance, group work, projects, and social life
– remote online learning, which the student can organize according to their schedule, often asynchronously
Languages, Programs, and Costs
The languages of instruction vary depending on the chosen pathway, with English and Portuguese being the main options, linked to British or Portuguese curricula. This flexibility is at the heart of the offering, with BGA emphasizing the ability for students to “follow their passions” and define a tailored study profile.
Annual tuition fees average €7,140, with variations depending on the program and level of study.
What Type of Student Profile?
This model suits highly autonomous young people capable of managing a hybrid learning environment, and families looking for a non-conventional solution (e.g., for high-level athletes or artists, or for those who don’t thrive in the more traditional structure of a daily school).
For parents seeking a more traditional framework with recess, school routines, and class-to-class progression, ISM or ISSM are generally more reassuring. But for some adolescents, BGA can be a significant motivational boost.
Other Bilingual Options and Broader Context in Madeira
Beyond the three institutions most often presented as “international schools” in the strict sense, Madeira has several private or public bilingual schools that may interest certain families, especially for secondary education:
Presentation of schools in Madeira offering foreign language programs or international certifications, suitable for expatriate families or those seeking a multilingual education.
Catholic school in Funchal, rooted in the Portuguese system but certified as an IB World School for the Diploma (DP) taught in English. Offers an alternative for the final two years of high school, combining a Portuguese environment with an internationally recognized diploma.
Located in São Martinho (Funchal), offers a trilingual education (English, Portuguese, German) from kindergarten to 9th grade. Pedagogical approach blending traditional methods with progressive teaching.
Institution in Funchal offering a bilingual English-Portuguese curriculum up to Grade 6 (equivalent to CM2/6ème).
Located in Caniço, this school focuses on early childhood and primary education. The main language of instruction is English, with Portuguese as a second language.
Even if these schools do not all formally fall under the “international” category as per international rankings (IB, Cambridge accreditations, etc.), they can be relevant alternatives, especially for families already settled in Madeira who want a compromise between a local framework and a strong English presence.
Comparing ISM, ISSM, and BGA: A Practical Summary
To help get a clearer picture, it’s useful to compare the key characteristics of the three main international options on the island.
| Criterion | ISM – International School of Madeira | ISSM – International Sharing School Madeira | BGA – Brave Generation Academy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Location | Funchal (center, Calçada do Pico) | Funchal (Caminho dos Saltos) | Hub in Funchal |
| Main Age Range | 3–10 years (Nursery to Primary) | 3–18 years (Nursery to Grade 12) | Middle / High school and higher education |
| Curriculum | Cambridge (Early Years + Primary), British, bilingual | IB Continuum (PYP, MYP, DP), International Baccalaureate | Online programs (British/Portuguese) |
| Languages of Instruction | English (primary) + Portuguese (balanced from Grade 1) | English (primary) + daily Portuguese, additional languages (FR, ES, DE, ZH, RU) | English and/or Portuguese depending on the track |
| Class Size | ≈ 10–12 students (max ~16) | max. 18 students | Small groups, hub model |
| Annual Fees (order of magnitude) | ≈ €5,300–€5,900 (3–10 years) | €5,880–€13,140 (3–18 years) | ≈ €7,140 (varies by course) |
| Registration Fee | ≈ €250–€350 (one-time) | €600 (new student), €300 (renewal) | Varies by hub |
| Strengths | True early bilingualism, family atmosphere, moderate costs | Complete IB continuum, modern campus, rich linguistic and activity offering | Maximum flexibility, self-paced, hybrid model |
| Limitations | Stops after primary, fewer extracurricular options than ISSM | Higher cost, significant academic demands at DP level | Less structured, requires autonomy and discipline |
How to Choose: What Questions to Ask?
Faced with these options, the first temptation is to focus exclusively on rankings or labels (“best school,” “IB,” “Cambridge”). However, the truly relevant choice depends mainly on a few key parameters specific to each family.
The planned length of stay on the island plays a crucial role. A stay of two or three years often leads to choosing an internationally recognized curriculum (Cambridge or IB) to facilitate a potential future transition to another country. In this case, ISM is very suitable for younger children, while ISSM ensures continuity through to university entry.
For a long-term stay and deep roots in Portugal, choosing a local school (public or private Portuguese) is recommended, with the possibility of supplementing with English classes. International schools in Madeira can serve as a temporary transition while the child learns the language and adapts, before integration into the local system or a structure like Escola da APEL for the IB Diploma.
The language the child already knows is another central factor. An English-speaking student with little or no Portuguese will likely integrate faster at ISM or ISSM, which provide an English environment with gradual Portuguese support. A child already comfortable in Portuguese can more confidently consider hybrid solutions (Portuguese school + IB DP at APEL, or trilingualism at Madeira Multilingual School).
The adolescent’s ability to work independently is a determining factor for choosing a model like Brave Generation Academy. This self-paced learning system is not suitable for profiles that require a highly structured framework and daily teacher presence. Conversely, it can be particularly beneficial for young people who are highly motivated by a specific project and capable of managing their own learning pace.
Finally, the overall available budget and the number of children should be considered without taboo. Between tuition fees, registration fees, possible transport, meals, and activities, the annual bill can vary significantly from one school to another. For a family with three children, for example, the difference between an ISM followed by Portuguese public school track, and a full ISSM continuum through DP, quickly amounts to tens of thousands of euros over the entire schooling period.
Madeira: An Attractive Compromise Between Quality of Life and International Education
Even if the island does not offer the profusion of options found in Lisbon, Madeira offers an interesting compromise: a living environment renowned for its mildness, a generally well-ranked Portuguese education system, and a few international schools capable of competing with good mainland institutions, while often remaining slightly cheaper than their Lisbon or Algarve counterparts.
The two main international schools in Madeira, The International School of Madeira and International Sharing School – Madeira, offer distinct approaches. The first stands out for its early bilingualism and family atmosphere in primary. The second is characterized by a complete IB program, modern facilities, and strong multicultural diversity. At the same time, Brave Generation Academy represents the emergence of hybrid and personalized educational models, suited to students seeking autonomy and flexibility.
For families considering settling on the island, the most strategic step remains contacting the schools early, visiting the campuses, talking to the leadership and, if possible, with other parents already there. Behind the fee tables and curriculum acronyms, it is ultimately the fit between the child, the school’s philosophy, and the family’s life plan that will make the real difference in the long run.
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Cyril Jarnias is an independent expert in international wealth management with over 20 years of experience. As an expatriate himself, he is dedicated to helping individuals and business leaders build, protect, and pass on their wealth with complete peace of mind.
On his website, cyriljarnias.com, he shares his expertise on international real estate, offshore company formation, and expatriation.
Thanks to his expertise, he offers sound advice to optimize his clients' wealth management. Cyril Jarnias is also recognized for his appearances in many prestigious media outlets such as BFM Business, les Français de l’étranger, Le Figaro, Les Echos, and Mieux vivre votre argent, where he shares his knowledge and know-how in wealth management.
