At Colégio de S. Tomás, the close relationship between students and teachers is the basis of learning. It is at the Elementary Years that we begin to systematically pass on our cultural heritage to students so that they can begin to play an active part in it. Under the watchful eye of the adults, classes are in line with several approaches to learning that stimulate students’ critical analysis and supervise them in their introduction to reading, writing and reasoning.

It is at this stage, with the introduction of new subjects and new teachers, that we take up the challenge of giving our students the ability to begin to really understand reality, as they are fully immersed in it and search for its meaning.

The teacher no longer takes the lead. Adults take a step back and let each student take risks and establish a direct relationship with the materials, with others and with life.

In the Senior Years, the teachers at Colégio de S. Tomás pay special attention to their relationship with students. There is a close monitoring of each student so that each one can be helped to grow in character and intelligence, facing the challenges of adolescence.

In year 7 we ask students to be the protagonists of their learning;
In year 8 we prompt students to experience reality for themselves;
In year 9 we encourage students to be an example to the younger ones.

Liceu S. Tomás offers a broader curriculum than is common in Portugal at this stage, so as to provide a broad and consolidated overview of the great areas of human knowledge. Students are at the peak of their intelligence, therefore we propose a deepening of knowledge. We want to provide everything needed for each student to make decisions based on what they really know and to match their gifts and talents.

From Pre-school to High School, Colégio de S. Tomás offers students the opportunity to travel and take part in field trips of various types to expand their horizons and experience.

Starting at Elementary School, Colégio de S. Tomás brings together students, teachers and heads in assemblies that are also used to bring in guests.

Every year, the Great figures of World History Contest and the Science Fair challenge students to “roll up their sleeves” and learn while they experiment.

We challenge Middle Years students to attend “Clubes S. Tomás”, extra-curricular time activities that open their horizons and encourage them to stand out.