The Portugal News spoke to the new Head of School, Mr Ian Walker, about the changes and advances at this pioneering school in the Algarve.

At the centre of this development is a shared goal: to nurture globally minded students who are as academically capable as they are culturally aware. Mr Walker sees the school´s diversity as one of its greatest strengths and a key part of what sets it apart.

Over the past few months, pupil numbers have increased steadily across all sections of the school, a sign of the school's growing international and local reputation. Maintaining high academic standards remains a top priority, but equal attention is being given to ensuring that pupils thrive beyond the classroom and in the future. The school’s ethos has always been about striking a balance between ambition and curiosity, tradition and innovation, global vision and community spirit.

A dual curriculum choice that offers flexibility

One of the most distinctive aspects of Nobel Algarve Lagoa is its dual curriculum. Students can choose between an adapted international version of the National Curriculum for England and the Portuguese National Curriculum, a model that allows for flexibility and collaboration between the two pathways. This structure has created a uniquely multicultural learning environment, where classrooms mix nationalities, languages, and experiences. Rather than separating students, the system encourages crossover, helping young people grow comfortable moving between cultures and ideas.

That spirit of fluency, as Mr Walker calls it, is something the school is eager to continue building on. Linguistic and cultural confidence are seen as essential qualities in today’s world, and Nobel Algarve British International School, Lagoa, provides a space where they can naturally flourish. Within the same corridors, it’s common to hear conversations in English, Portuguese, and several other languages, a small reflection of the global perspectives that shape the school’s identity.

New facilities inspire commitment to healthy living and creativity

The school’s physical environment is also evolving. New sports facilities have been added to the Nobel Algarve Lagoa school, designed to support both participation and performance. Every student is encouraged to take part in physical activity for health and enjoyment, while those with athletic ambitions receive the guidance and flexibility they need to pursue them.

Creativity, too, is taking centre stage. Plans are underway to further develop the school’s arts programmes, from music and theatre to visual arts. The goal is to give students more opportunities to express themselves and build confidence in different forms. With experienced staff and modern facilities already in place, the foundations for a vibrant extracurricular life are strong.

AI Education and an eye on the future

Technology and innovation form another cornerstone of Nobel Algarve Lagoa’s future. As part of the wider Globeducate network of more than 65 international schools in 11 countries, with expert guidance from the group´s Head of AI and a global community of AI Ambassadors, the school is exploring how artificial intelligence can enhance both teaching and learning. The idea is not to replace the human side of education, but to use technology to deepen understanding and prepare students for a changing professional world, bringing in ethical debate as part of this programme.

There is also a growing emphasis on connecting education to real-world experience. The school plans to reintroduce work placements for older students, offering them a glimpse into local industries and helping them understand how their studies fit into future career paths. This aligns with an increasing awareness of alternative routes such as apprenticeships, which are being recognised as valuable complements to traditional university pathways.

A welcoming and caring international community

Beyond curriculum and innovation, what continues to define Nobel Algarve Lagoa is its sense of community. Teachers, students, and families form close connections that make the school feel personal despite its international reach. Visitors often notice how approachable the atmosphere is, seeing how students are greeted by name, how teachers invest time in understanding each individual’s strengths and challenges.

This caring environment, paired with a forward-thinking approach, creates a school culture that feels both grounded and ambitious. Leadership, in Mr Walker’s view, begins with listening to those in the community – to pupils, parents, and staff alike. By understanding the needs and perspectives of the community, the school can innovate with confidence and ensure that every change reflects shared values.

With its expanding facilities, diverse student population, and commitment to both academic and personal growth, Nobel Algarve British Internacional School, Lagoa, continues to stand out as a place where students are prepared not only for exams but for life.

In the coming years, the school aims to strengthen its identity as a space where education goes beyond borders, where young people can develop the knowledge, empathy, and adaptability needed to shape the world they’ll inherit. And as the new chapter unfolds, that guiding vision remains clear: to keep Nobel Algarve Lagoa moving confidently, compassionately, and creatively into the future.

What’s Next?

All families are invited to join this vibrant school community at Nobel Open Day, scheduled for the 12th of December.

Find out more at www.nobelalgarve.com/lagoa/