Looking for a school or kindergarten

Hi everyone,
We're a family living in the Algarve (Portugal), and we're planning to spend January to March 2027 in Santa Maria, Sal. We have two boys: 8 years old, and 5 (turning 5 in October). They currently go to a Waldorf school, so they're used to creative, hands-on learning with lots of time outdoors. They speak Portuguese and English, but no French.

We're looking for a school or kindergarten for those three months, and we have a few questions:

Is the École Internationale de Sal (EIS) in Murdeira still open? Their website no longer works and their Facebook page hasn't been updated since 2024. Does anyone have a working email address or phone number?

Are there other options for a short stay: a small private school, a kindergarten, or a playgroup in or around Santa Maria?

Any experience or advice is very welcome, especially from parents with kids on the island. Thank you!

Nadine - @nadinevanheusden

Hi Nadine,

EIS is still functioning. They msut have had a change in management because they no longer have access to the website you've been looking at, and they no longer have access to the previous social media pages. They are in the process of rebuilding the website, and social media pages. But you can call them on their main line which is still listed on their Facebook page. Just call teh number but precced it with +238.

I do not personally know of options for small private schools, kindergartens, play groups, etc, for a short stay. I do not see any advertized though I would imagine that any of the Cape Verdean private day care centers will probably be happy to accommodate you.

As for private schools, besides the EIS in Sal, the others I am aware of are all located in Praia (Portuguese, French and English schools) and have been established for a long time. But they are for long term enrollment (renewable yearly). If anyone ese needs info on these private schools, for example families relocating with kids of up to high school age, just ask. I'd be happy to share the information.

Angelo

Dear Angelo, thanks a lot for your detailed reply. I'm going to give them a call!