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FAMILY GUIDE · EDUCATION SYSTEM

How Brazilian schooling works — from creche to Ensino Médio

In Brazil, stage, network and shift are more useful than a generic “grade”. This guide organises the terms and shows what to confirm at the exact Recife campus.

Age is a guide, but placement depends on records, previous study and network rules. Do not choose from an apparently matching number alone.

Educação Infantil

Early education includes creche and pré-escola, with different groups, schedules, meals and full-day arrangements.

  • creche commonly 0–3
  • pré-escola 4–5
  • confirm group, shift and full day

Ensino Fundamental I

The early fundamental years build literacy and curriculum foundations, often with a lead teacher and specialists. International pupils need explicit Portuguese support.

  • 1st–5th year
  • cut-off confirmed by network
  • adaptation and assessment

Ensino Fundamental II

Later years add subject teachers and autonomy. The stage may operate at another campus in the same network.

  • 6th–9th year
  • shift may change
  • confirm campus continuity

Ensino Médio

This completes basic schooling. Curriculum, workload, ENEM preparation and pathways depend on current rules and the institution.

  • normally three years
  • read the actual curriculum
  • preparation cannot promise results

Municipal, state, federal and private

These are management networks, not quality levels. Each has its own admission and responsibilities; private education adds a contract and fees.

  • use the correct network channel
  • place and address matter
  • calculate the full private year

Shift, full day and calendar

Morning and afternoon alter routine and commute. Full day must specify hours, meals, rest and teaching. Calendars are published each year.

  • test travel at shift time
  • full day varies
  • confirm holidays and staff days
CHECKLIST

12 terms to confirm

01Stage and class?

02Which shift?

03What does full day include?

04Which network?

05Campus INEP code?

06Is the next stage here?

07How is assessment handled?

08How is Portuguese supported?

09How are foreign records recognised?

10How do meals work?

11Which costs are compulsory?

12What is the official enrolment channel?