Second Cycle
Second Cycle

Second Cycle

From the Second Cycle, students aged 10 to 12 begin a more specialised education, with new subjects in humanities, science and technology that broaden their cultural understanding. They also develop life skills through leadership, solidarity and professional sports training, strengthening their all-round education at school.

Our curriculum

Learners continue with the Portuguese National Curriculum through a subject-based, student-centred approach that promotes critical thinking, autonomy, collaborative learning and the development of key competencies.

Portuguese

Exploring language and imagination

Students consolidate their reading, writing, oral expression and listening skills through the study of various types of literary, informative texts, among others.

Focusing on reading comprehension, vocabulary expansion, written expression and grammatical accuracy. In this way, students develop critical thinking and communication skills, confidently articulating clear ideas.

Portuguese

Mathematics

Solving real-life problems through logic and numbers

The mastery of numerical operations, geometry, measurement, data analysis and problem solving is deepened.

Through structured tasks and applied challenges, students develop logical reasoning, mental calculation strategies and the ability to interpret and represent mathematical information in multiple ways.

Mathematics

Physical Education

Strengthen body and mind through movement

Students develop motor coordination, physical condition and the ability to cooperate in teams. They participate in various physical activities that promote endurance, balance, agility and strategic thinking

Through healthy competition, students acquire responsibility, respect and perseverance, contributing to their personal and social wellbeing.

Physical Education

English

Gaining confidence in a foreign language

Students progressively master linguistic structures, vocabulary and communication strategies in English. Through interactive learning, reading comprehension and contextualised grammar exercises, they strengthen their oral and written skills.

With a focus on using English confidently in real and varied contexts, students develop autonomy and fluency, learning to communicate clearly and adapt their language to each situation. This builds strong foundations for future success.

English

History and Geography of Portugal

Discover our cultural heritage

Students explore Portugal’s historical and geographical development, investigating key events, national heritage, geographical characteristics and the relationship between society and the environment.

Through this integrated area of study, they develop critical thinking, spatial awareness and an understanding of Portugal’s role within the European and global context.

History and Geography of Portugal

Music

Expressing yourself through rhythm and sound

In Music, learners study of rhythm, intonation, form and dynamics is deepened, always linked to active listening, interpretation and basic composition. It explores a diversity of musical styles and traditions that stimulate creative expression and cultural awareness. At the same time, the ability to analyse and appreciate music critically is developed.

In the 2nd Cycle, individual and group practices reinforce respect for sound heritage and make the artistic experience more meaningful.

Music

Visual Education

Create, imagine and transform ideas into works that tell your own story

Creativity, observation, spatial awareness and artistic expression skills are developed, while promoting the appreciation of visual culture and the critical interpretation of image. More than "doing work", the goal is to learn how to think, create and solve problems.

The students of the 2nd Cycle value the creative process, experimentation and reflection, connecting art, identity and the world. Each project is a means to communicate, question and gain expressive autonomy.

Visual Education

Natural Sciences

Investigating the world through curiosity and discovery

Students are introduced to fundamental concepts in the disciplines of Biology, Physics and Earth Sciences. They participate in scientific research, observation and hands-on experimentation to explore living organisms, physical phenomena and environmental systems.

It is from the 2nd cycle that scientific literacy, deep analytical thinking and a sense of responsibility towards the natural world are developed.

Natural Sciences

Technological Education

Understanding the materials around us

This discipline is worked in an integrated, practical way and aligned with an active learning approach. Collaborative and project-based learning is developed.

Students participate in hands-on experiments with materials and construction processes. Through manual projects with wood, paper, iron and plastic, they explore spatial reasoning and lateral thinking, applying technology to everyday situations.

This course allows students to develop innovation, precision and teamwork skills.

Technological Education

Information and Communication Technology (ICT)

Developing digital skills for a connected world

Digital literacy is promoted through the responsible use of technological tools and platforms. The curriculum develops skills in information processing, online security, digital communication and content creation, with a strong focus on ethical and effective participation in digital environments.

Students develop critical thinking and digital citizenship. Each task allows you to search carefully, collaborate online and create multimedia resources, understanding the impact of technology.

Information and Communication Technology (ICT)

Citizenship and Development

Understanding values through collective reflection

This interdisciplinary area is essential to support the formation of responsible, informed and active citizens in society. Students explore fundamental themes such as human rights, democratic values, ethics, intercultural understanding, dialogue, environmental sustainability, financial literacy and personal development.

Critical thinking, civic participation and the ability to act with empathy and respect for diversity are promoted, preparing them for the challenges of today's world.

Citizenship and Development

A typical day in our Second Cycle

Every day is an opportunity to learn, overcome challenges and confidently build a successful path towards the future.

Core learning pillars

In the Second Cycle, students gain autonomy with dedicated mentoring and develop social, emotional and leadership skills.

  • Academic achievement

    Academic achievement

    Enjoy personalised learning that continuously enhances knowledge, skills and understanding.

  • Life competencies

    Life competencies

    Gain essential life skills to thrive in academics, as well as careers and personal lives.

  • Multilingualism

    Multilingualism

    Develop proficiency in at least one world language, while being supported in home or first languages.

  • International opportunities

    International opportunities

    Try global skill-building programmes and activities that develop critical thinking, teamwork and leadership.

  • Life & career pathways

    Life & career pathways

    Benefit from personalised guidance for university and career choices, supporting your chosen path.

When to enrol?

At Colégio Monte Maior, flexible enrolment for the Second Cycle is available throughout the year. The admissions team is on hand to answer your questions and help you choose the most suitable start date for your child.

Eurico Guerreiro

In 2nd Cycle, our work with students is based on a wide variety of learning experiences. The range of subjects, combined with the diverse teaching approaches of our teachers, exposes students to different study and working methods, helping them develop the skills they need for their academic journey.

Eurico Guerreiro, English Teacher & Form Tutor (2nd Cycle)

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Expand academic and personal growth through different areas of specialisation at CMM.

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