More than "just
a school"
At Sierra Canyon American International School, we believe that education should be as boundless as your child’s potential. Guided by our 'Learning Forward' philosophy, we offer a living framework where curiosity meets innovation and intellectual rigor balances with personal development. Our state-of-the-art campus in Alcochete is more than just a school, a creative and inclusive community is being designed to inspire students to think critically, grow confidently, and lead with integrity. From our focused Lower School learning clusters to the dynamic academic environments of our Upper School, we empower every student to become an independent, well-rounded global citizen, ready to engage meaningfully.
Sierra Canyon Legacy
A Heritage of Excellence
Founded in 1978, what started as a visionary educational camp evolved into one of the most prestigious independent preparatory schools in the United States. Today, Sierra Canyon School in Los Angeles is a global benchmark for academic rigor, elite athletics, and world-class arts, consistently placing graduates in the world’s finest universities.
Bringing a proven vision to Portugal, SCAIS is the next chapter of this storied legacy. We aren't just opening a new school, we are transplanting a culture of success that has been refined over five decades. By choosing our school, your child joins a global community rooted in the same "Learning Forward" philosophy that has empowered generations of leaders, innovators, and creators in California.
Every child carries a unique promise
Our mission is to nurture that potential through a diverse and attentive student-teacher culture that balances academic excellence with emotional and ethical growth. At Sierra Canyon, your child will find a special place to grow, an environment that values their individuality while preparing them to meet the challenges of a fast-changing world with confidence. Our values are the compass that guides every interaction and decision. We don’t just teach, we shape character and inspire excellence through a commitment to five core values.
Excellence
Integrity
Community
Independence
Academic and personal excellence for every student. Individual growth measured by personal potential.
Excellence celebrated collectively, not defined by a single standard.
Strong moral and ethical foundation within a principled community. Honesty, respect, and compassion guide student actions
Close student - faculty relationships support learning and personal growth.
Strong sense of belonging built on shared commitment and responsibility.
Progressive independence and responsibility in learning.
Curiosity, creativity, and confidence actively fostered.
Opportunities to lead and grow within the school community.
Perspective
Broadening worldviews through academics and extracurriculars.
Experiential learning connects students to community and the wider world.
SCAIS VISION
A place where every space can spark discovery
In our school, we aspire to build a multicultural educational community, where students, from ages 3 through 18 can grow with confidence, curiosity, creativity, and the skills they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving global world.
We believe learning should be personal, meaningful and grounded in a deep understanding of how children learn best. By embracing innovation and making smart use of technology, including AI, we tailor education to the individual needs of each student, encouraging curiosity, critical thinking, creativity and a lifelong love of learning alongside strong academic achievement.
We imagine school as a place where every space can spark discovery. Classrooms, outdoor areas, libraries, maker labs, black box theatres and digital studios all become opportunities for students to explore, collaborate, and express themselves.
