IGCSEs

CAMBRIDGE IGCSE PROGRAMME IN LISBON (Ages 14–16)

YEARS 10 & 11: PREPARING STUDENTS FOR ACADEMIC SUCCESS AND FUTURE PATHWAYS

The IGCSE years mark an important stage in every student’s educational journey. At The Lisboan, students move into a more focused and academically ambitious programme, while continuing to develop the confidence, curiosity and independence they need for life beyond school.

Following the Cambridge IGCSE curriculum, students build strong subject knowledge, refine their study skills and learn to think critically, communicate clearly and apply their learning to real-world contexts. This internationally recognised programme provides an excellent foundation for the IB Diploma Programme and future university pathways.

WHY CHOOSE THE LISBOAN FOR THE IGCSE YEARS?

INTERNATIONALLY RECOGNISED QUALIFICATION

Students follow the Cambridge IGCSE programme, one of the world’s most respected qualifications for 14 to 16-year-olds, providing an excellent foundation for the IB Diploma Programme and universities worldwide.

EXPERT SUBJECT SPECIALISTS

Every subject is taught by passionate specialist teachers who inspire curiosity, challenge students to achieve their best, and provide personalised academic support.

SMALL CLASSES, INDIVIDUAL ATTENTION

Our small class sizes allow teachers to know every student well, providing tailored guidance, regular feedback and the right level of challenge to help each learner thrive.

A PERSONALISED ACADEMIC JOURNEY

Students receive expert support when choosing IGCSE subjects, ensuring their programme reflects their interests, strengths and future aspirations.

LEARNING BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

Academic learning is enriched through projects, presentations, city-based learning, sustainability initiatives, entrepreneurship and our Experience Programme, helping students connect knowledge with the real world.

INTENTIONAL USE OF TECHNOLOGY

Students use their own Microsoft device through our BYOD programme, developing digital responsibility while using technology purposefully to enhance research, collaboration and independent learning.

OUTSTANDING PASTORAL CARE

Academic success goes hand in hand with wellbeing. Every student is known, supported and encouraged to develop resilience, confidence and independence throughout these important years.

PREPARING STUDENTS FOR THE FUTURE

Beyond examination success, we develop critical thinking, communication, creativity and problem-solving skills, ensuring students are fully prepared for the IB Diploma Programme, university and life beyond school.

IGCSE Skills and Recognition

The IGCSE is recognised worldwide and is equivalent to the GCSE in the UK. As an English language-based qualification, it provides students with broad academic knowledge while building essential critical skills such as analysis, problem solving and communication.

Subject Options and Guidance

Guided by an academic counsellor, students select from a variety of IGCSE subjects based on their strengths and future ambitions. Choices include English, Maths, Science, Humanities, Modern Foreign Languages, Design and Technology, Art and Design, Music and Physical Education.

Pathways Beyond IGCSE

At the end of Year 11, students sit the Cambridge International Education IGCSE examinations. Success at this level provides a strong platform for progression to the IB Diploma Programme, A levels or vocational pathways.

A Broad & Balanced Curriculum

Students study a carefully selected range of subjects, designed to provide both academic depth and breadth. The programme encourages students to explore their strengths, discover new interests and make informed choices about their future.

Subject specialist teaching ensures that students are challenged, supported and inspired in every area of learning. Lessons are designed to promote independence, analytical thinking, problem-solving and creativity, helping students become confident learners who take ownership of their progress.

Learning With Purpose

At The Lisboan, IGCSE learning is not about memorising information. Students are encouraged to understand concepts deeply, make connections between subjects and apply their knowledge to meaningful situations.

Through discussion, investigation, written work, practical projects and presentations, students develop the skills they need to succeed in examinations and beyond them.

Individual Support & Guidance

The IGCSE years are also a time of personal growth. Students receive close academic and pastoral support as they manage increased expectations, make subject choices and begin to consider future pathways.

Our teachers work closely with each student to understand their strengths, ambitions and areas for development, ensuring they are both challenged and supported throughout the programme.

Technology For Learning

Technology is used intentionally to support learning, organisation and creativity. IGCSE students follow a BYOD model, bringing their own Microsoft device to school. This encourages responsibility, care and independence, while ensuring students have the digital tools they need for research, collaboration, coursework and communication.

Technology enhances learning. It does not replace strong teaching, thoughtful discussion or meaningful academic challenge.

Preparing For What Comes Next

By the end of the IGCSE years, students are ready to take the next step with confidence. They leave the programme with strong academic foundations, greater independence and a clearer understanding of themselves as learners.

At The Lisboan, our goal is to ensure every student is prepared not only for examinations, but for the opportunities, choices and challenges that lie ahead.

A Strong Foundation For Future Success

The IGCSE years help students grow into capable, confident and thoughtful young people, ready for the IB Diploma Programme, future university pathways and a world that needs critical thinkers, creative problem-solvers and responsible global citizens.

Cambridge IGCSE is one of the world’s most respected international qualifications for students aged 14 to 16. It is recognised by leading schools, colleges and universities around the world and prepares students exceptionally well for the next stage of their education.

The programme develops more than academic knowledge. Students learn how to research, evaluate, question, present and apply ideas across different subjects. This makes IGCSE an ideal bridge between Lower Secondary and the IB Diploma Programme, supporting students as they become more mature, independent and reflective learners.

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"At The Lisboan International School, children can become whoever they want to be, whether that’s a professional surfer, digital entrepreneur, environmental lawyer, or teacher for the next generation." Niall Brennan - Founder of Artemis Education

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