Pathways to the Future: How Nobel Algarve Supports Every Student’s Journey

It is in guiding those moments of uncertainty that the careers and guidance programme at Nobel Algarve British International School Lagoa makes a lasting impact.

Oscar Sitwell, a recent Sixth Form graduate from the school, is one such student. His journey from uncertainty about his future to embarking on a career in construction and surveying, and support for a Gap Year of global construction projects, shows how personalised support, expert teaching, and real-world opportunities can transform a young person’s future.

Finding a Direction

“When I first told my friends and family I wanted to go into the construction industry, their reactions were telling,” Oscar explains. “My mum said, ‘But you’re a top student, you could be a lawyer or a banker.’ My friends nodded politely, but I knew they were confused too.”

At 16, Oscar was unsure of his future. While many of his peers were already leaning towards careers in finance, medicine, or law, he only knew that he loved economics and geography. “That was when I realised I wanted something with impact,” he says. “I was interested in sustainable cities, resilient infrastructure, and real solutions that could make a difference in communities.”

It was David Green, Key Stage 5 Coordinator and University Counsellor at Nobel Algarve, who helped Oscar see how those interests could translate into a career. “Mr Green noticed that spark,” Oscar recalls. “He encouraged me to explore career paths in the built environment, supported me with my UCAS statement, and suggested I attend a Sustainable Cities conference in Portugal. I ended up interviewing speakers and publishing an article in The Portugal News. That was a turning point for me.”

Guidance from the Start

While Oscar’s story is unique, the kind of tailored support he received is a hallmark of Nobel Algarve’s approach. Career exploration begins early in Middle School under the guidance of Vocational Mentor Carolina Cid. Students reflect on their interests, strengths, and aspirations well before they reach Sixth Form, laying the foundations for informed decision-making later.

All secondary students also have access to Unifrog, a globally recognised online platform where they can compare courses, explore apprenticeships, and build CVs. “It gives students a way of taking ownership of their future from an early stage,” explains Mr Green.

He continues: “At Nobel Algarve Lagoa, we consistently emphasise that there is no single path to success. Each student’s journey is unique, and while the majority pursue university studies, we also guide those considering apprenticeships, internships, gap years, or alternative careers. This year, we are delighted that 90% of our students secured a place in their first-choice university.”

For Abigail Oliver, who is now preparing to begin her studies in Biological Sciences at her first-choice university, this personalised approach made all the difference:

“I received huge amounts of support when applying for university. My teachers gave tips on structuring my personal statement, as well as helping me to find the best courses suitable for me and my interests. After receiving a conditional offer from my first choice university, I received constant encouragement and support in order to achieve those grades in my final exams. My teachers not only helped me understand the content fully but also helped me feel confident about my performance in my final exams.”

Opening Doors to the World

Students benefit from a rich programme of opportunities to engage with universities and employers. Nobel Algarve Lagoa hosts annual on-site university fairs and participates in major national events such as Futurália, where families can meet representatives from institutions across the globe. Visiting speakers and workshops throughout the year bring additional inspiration — from entrepreneurship seminars with Hult Business School London to personal statement masterclasses.

The school also has a thriving Internship Programme. This year, placements ranged from journalism with The Portugal News to online law internships made possible by parents in the school community. Such experiences give students a taste of professional life and help shape their ambitions.

Parents and alumni are a vital part of this ecosystem. Former students regularly return to share their journeys, while parents offer presentations on their own careers. These encounters broaden horizons and demonstrate that success can take many forms.

A Global Outlook

The results speak for themselves. Graduates from Nobel Algarve have earned prestigious scholarships at Católica University in Portugal, Bocconi University in Italy, and institutions across the United States. Many secure places at top European universities, including the Russell Group in the UK, as well as destinations further afield in the Netherlands, Scandinavia, and beyond.

Oscar himself achieved straight As in his A Levels and received multiple offers from top universities. Yet he chose a different route — a degree apprenticeship that combines study with practical experience.

As part of an intentional gap year, he is now travelling to South America and Asia, volunteering on school and housing projects and gaining insights into major infrastructure developments. This September, he will join the UK Delivery Team in Peru, working alongside international engineering companies Gleeds, Mace, and Arup on one of the largest infrastructure programmes in the region. Together, they are rebuilding 47 schools, 18 hospitals, and 17 flood defences — creating climate-resilient infrastructure that will impact millions of lives.

Preparing for the Future

Stories like Oscar’s and Abigail’s capture the essence of Nobel Algarve’s ethos. Academic success is important, but it is only part of the picture. What truly distinguishes the school is its commitment to nurturing ambition, resilience, and global citizenship.

Learning extends beyond the classroom and beyond borders. From early vocational guidance to Sixth Form counselling, from internship opportunities to international partnerships, every element of the school’s programme is designed to help students not only identify their passions but also act on them with confidence.

Oscar sums it up best: “This is exactly the kind of opportunity that happens when a school like Nobel Algarve British International School goes beyond academics. The guidance and support didn’t just help me find my path – they prepared me for it.”

About Nobel Algarve British International School

Established in 1972, Nobel Algarve British International School is Southern Portugal’s leading international school. With campuses in Lagoa and Almancil, it educates more than 1,400 students from 50 nationalities, aged three to 18. Students follow either the National Curriculum for England with IGCSEs and A Levels or the Portuguese Curriculum, with the vast majority progressing to leading universities worldwide. Nobel Algarve is part of Globeducate, a group of over 65 premium bilingual and international schools in 11 countries, preparing more than 40,000 young people to be global citizens who can shape the world.