Deutsche Schule Algarve

Sitio do Lobito, 8300-054 Silves, Algarve, Portugal

Primary school (Grades 1–4) and Secondary levels I & II (Grades 5–12, Abitur). German is the language of instruction; Portuguese is part of daily life from the start, with mother-tongue and foreign-language groupings from Grade 2 and English introduced from Grade 3. In Secondary levels I & II, German remains the instruction language, with English and Portuguese as mandatory foreign languages.

German international school

Individualized support in small groups

Germany; German international school following KMK guidelines

German Auslandsschulen curricula form the basis for teaching. The Grundschule covers Grades 1–4 and builds the foundation for independent, motivated learning in an international context, with German and Portuguese as part of daily life. From Grade 2, German and Portuguese are taught in mother-tongue and foreign-language groups, and English is added from Grade 3. The timetable includes core subjects plus music, art, Sachunterricht, sport and swimming, with differentiated instruction and open-learning formats. In Sekundarstufen I & II (Grades 5–12), German remains the language of instruction; English and Portuguese are mandatory foreign languages, and the curriculum includes core subjects, electives and project work with emphasis on scientific work, presentation techniques and digital competencies. The curricula align with KMK guidelines for Deutsche Auslandsschulen and enable seamless transitions to schools in Germany and worldwide.

All year levels are single-track, and classes are small, with up to 20 students.

Grade 10 provides Abschluss & Übergang with dual function: Mittlerer Schulabschluss (MSA) for Realschule students and the introduction phase to upper secondary. Realschule students complete a German and Math/English exam plus an oral exam; Gymnasium students complete central written exams in German, Math and English, and the MSA is included in the Grade 11 promotion. Grades 11–12 form the Qualifikationsphase leading to Allgemeine Hochschulreife via Deutsche Internationale Abiturprüfung. The German International Abitur is worldwide recognized and opens doors to universities and labor markets in Germany and many other countries, with preparation emphasizing scientific work, self-organization, teamwork, project orientation, and presentation techniques.

The German International Abitur is worldwide recognized and opens doors to universities in Germany and many other countries.

The school pursues a holistic education concept. It emphasizes personal development, social competencies, and creative as well as athletic engagement. Small classes and a family-like atmosphere support learning with individualized attention. German is the language of instruction, Portuguese is used in daily life, and English and French are taught as subjects with intercultural projects such as Erasmus. This approach helps students grow into independent, reflective, and globally aware individuals.

The school provides individualized support to students. Small classes and close collaboration between teachers, learners, and parents enable targeted, personalized learning. Language support is offered as needed, especially for entry into Class 1 or for transfer students. The DSA welcomes pupils of all nationalities. The Infomappe describes an inclusive environment where all participants are valued and can learn.

English and French are taught as part of the curriculum. German is the language of instruction, and Portuguese is used in day-to-day life, complemented by English and French courses. Targeted language support is offered when needed, particularly for new entrants. Erasmus and other international projects foster multilingual growth and intercultural experience. The school operates in a multilingual environment that supports learners across languages.

The school fosters a peaceful, respectful atmosphere that underpins well-being. The values-based culture emphasizes respectful and considerate interactions, creating a safe and inclusive community. Multilingual classes and a cooperative school community support belonging and student well-being. Vertrauenslehrer (trusted teachers) provide accessible support and are points of contact for student concerns. Inclusion and well-being are integral to the school's approach.

Vertrauenslehrer (trusted teachers) are designated safeguarding contacts for students. Hausordnung (house rules) and Schulordnung (school regulations) are provided as key safeguarding and governance documents. Communication pathways and designated contacts (Ansprechpartner and Kommunikationswege) exist for reporting concerns. The Infomappe outlines inclusive values and clear responsibilities involving parents and students in safeguarding. The school's safeguarding framework is embedded in its documents and practices.

01 First contact & consultation: DSA is open to children of all nationalities. Willingness to follow instruction in German and Portuguese is required, and targeted language support is offered if needed, especially for entry to Grade 1 or for transfer students. We welcome early contact from interested families and provide insights into our school concept, helping you choose the appropriate grade level.

02 School tour & interview: After submitting the necessary documents (see checklist) and subject to appointment availability, you will be invited to an individual meeting with school leadership, digitally or on-site. The meeting provides an opportunity to ask questions about classroom life, assessment methods, and the overall learning approach. If desired, you can also arrange a tour of the school and meet with staff.

03 Educational admission interview: Before enrollment we conduct a short getting-to-know-your-child interview. An assessment of language abilities may also be conducted as needed. The interview helps determine appropriate support measures and next steps.

04 Enrollment: After a positive response, the enrollment documents are provided. Enrollment becomes binding only after signing the school contract. The contract secures the place and confirms the start arrangement for the upcoming term.