Primary School

We believe children learn best when they are actively engaged in the learning process.

Our teachers build learning around students’ interests, questions and experiences, creating opportunities for curiosity, creativity, collaboration and critical thinking. Students are encouraged to take ownership of their learning, reflect on their progress and develop confidence as independent learners.

Learning takes place through a variety of approaches, including individual tasks, partner work, small-group collaboration and whole-class discussions, ensuring every child can contribute and succeed.

Every Primary student is supported by a dedicated Homeroom Teacher who knows them well and guides their academic and personal development.

Homeroom teachers lead learning in:

• English
• Mathematics
• Science
• Humanities
• PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education)

Students also learn with specialist teachers in:

• Portuguese Language & Culture
• Art
• Music
• Drama
• Computer Science
• Physical Education
• French (Year 6)

This balance provides both the security of a strong daily relationship with a homeroom teacher and the expertise of specialist subject teaching.

Language development is a central focus throughout Primary School.

All students study:

ENGLISH

As the language of instruction, English is developed across all subjects through speaking, listening, reading and writing.

PORTUGUESE LANGUAGE & CULTURE

All students participate in Portuguese lessons designed to develop language proficiency while fostering a deeper understanding of Portuguese culture and life in Lisbon.

Provision is tailored to both native and non-native Portuguese speakers, ensuring every child is appropriately challenged and supported.

FRENCH (YEAR 6)

Students begin learning French in Year 6, preparing them for further language study in Secondary School.

Students follow the internationally recognised White Rose Mathematics approach, which focuses on developing deep understanding, reasoning and problem-solving skills.

Rather than simply learning procedures, students are encouraged to explain their thinking, make connections between concepts and apply mathematics in different contexts. This approach builds confidence, fluency and a genuine understanding of mathematical ideas.

Strong literacy skills underpin success across all areas of learning.

Reading is a daily part of life at The Lisboan, helping students develop fluency, comprehension, vocabulary and a love of literature.

Students also participate in a daily handwriting programme, building fluent, legible handwriting and pride in the presentation of their work.

We believe Primary children learn best through rich classroom experiences, family time and the joy of reading. Rather than setting regular homework, we encourage students to read every day, helping them develop fluency, vocabulary, imagination and a lifelong love of books.

Learning is organised around six transdisciplinary themes each year — two per term.

These themes connect subjects together and help students understand how knowledge applies in the real world. Rather than learning in isolated subjects, students explore meaningful questions, make connections across disciplines and develop a deeper understanding of the world around them.

At the end of each theme, students share their learning through presentations and exhibitions, giving families the opportunity to celebrate progress and see learning in action.

Learning at The Lisboan extends far beyond four walls.

Science is taught through investigation, experimentation and enquiry and class activities take place both inside and outside the classroom, while our Lisbon as a Classroom programme provides regular opportunities to connect learning with the city around us.

Students learn through:

• Practical investigations
• Outdoor learning
• Fieldwork
• Community connections
• Real-world experiences

At The Lisboan, technology is a tool to enhance learning—not the focus of it. We believe children learn best through discussion, collaboration, creativity and hands-on experiences, using technology only when it adds genuine value to the learning process.

From the earliest years of Primary, students develop digital confidence through dedicated Computer Science lessons. Younger learners are introduced to computational thinking and problem-solving using interactive tools such as Bee-Bots, while students aged 8 and above begin learning the fundamentals of coding and programming through engaging platforms such as CodiPlay.

By using technology intentionally and purposefully, we help students become confident, creative and responsible digital citizens, equipped with the skills they will need for the future without losing sight of the importance of human interaction, critical thinking and real-world experiences

Students participate in Physical Education three times each week, developing physical literacy, teamwork, resilience and healthy habits.

All Primary School  students walk to the Alvito pool for their weekly swimming lesson.

 Through a wide range of activities, at the school facilities or the neighbourhood facilities like the Atletico Club, children learn the importance of movement, wellbeing and active lifestyles while building confidence and enjoyment in sport

Assessment at The Lisboan is designed to help students learn and improve.

Teachers use ongoing assessment to understand each child’s progress, celebrate achievements and identify next steps for development.

Alongside academic attainment, we place great importance on:

• Attitude towards learning
• Effort and engagement
• Collaboration
• Independence
• Resilience

From Years 4–6, students participate in the Cambridge Progress Test in English (PTE) and Progress Test in Mathematics (PTM), providing valuable insights into progress and helping ensure students are well prepared for future learning.

We believe support is most effective when it happens within the learning environment.

Whenever possible, additional support is provided in the classroom, allowing students to remain connected to their peers and fully engaged in learning. Teachers work closely together to ensure that challenge and support are available for every learner.