A Bright Beginning: The Story of a School, a Team, a Dream

As the academic year draws to a close at Bright International School, it’s a natural time to pause and reflect on what has been a landmark year for the school. Under the leadership of Principal Tom Caston, Bright has not only found its rhythm, but begun to define its identity — and what a start it’s been.

“This role felt like my dream job from day one,” Tom shares with a smile, “and it hasn’t disappointed.” Leading a school always brings its challenges, but for Tom, the antidote is simple: stepping into the classrooms. “Walking around and seeing the bright, curious and happy faces of our pupils never fails to make me smile. They are a pleasure to be around.”

Looking back, one of the most surprising and heartening aspects of his first year has been the community’s response, especially from parents. “Their support has been incredible. From helping at events like Open Days and the Christmas Bazaar to simply spreading the word about Bright in the Algarve, they’ve played a huge part in our growth. We share the same goal: to make Bright a success; and I am very lucky to have this group alongside me.”

This first year has also been one of transition and vision. Since the school’s rebranding, there has been a major focus on reshaping the academic environment, both physically and culturally. The completion of the Lower Secondary renovation was a major milestone. “Seeing the children and staff adapt so naturally to these new learning spaces has been inspiring. The quality of independent learning has been unlike anything I’ve seen before in my career.”

Staff development has also been central to this transformation. “We’ve welcomed some fantastic new teachers to prepare for iGCSE Year 10, and I am proud to say that every member of staff will be staying on next year. Consistency is vital for pupil wellbeing and learning, and it starts with a happy, valued team.”

One year in, Bright’s culture is already something special. “It’s the warmth and family feel that struck me immediately on my first visit, and it’s something I am determined to protect. Teaching is a job that demands heart and soul, and I’ve inherited an amazing group of professionals who truly care.”

The student experience has evolved dramatically, too. With the innovative new classrooms, pupils are thriving in environments that support independence, creativity and collaboration. Beyond the classroom, Bright’s wider curriculum has come alive. “We’ve partnered with some incredibly talented people from Rise Creative Arts for Drama, to DJ Suzi and the Originals Band for music, and next year, Vilamoura Sports Academy will be running all extracurricular sports. The energy they bring is infectious.”

As for what lies ahead, the focus remains clear: make the most of the new learning spaces, nurture and grow the team, launch a world-class iGCSE programme and keep the children excited to run through the gates each morning.

If Tom had to summarise the year in just one sentence? “A fabulous team effort, building something unique and wonderful.”

And indeed, Bright’s first year has been exactly that.

For more information, please contact Bright International School - Algarve at (+351) 289 154 800.