The Portuguese Government will test starting in 2027/2028 a new educational model that merges the first and second cycles, covering from 1st to 6th grade. The model will be implemented in a wide range of schools and is described by the Executive as "unique in Europe".
The measure implies significant curricular changes and greater flexibility in teacher management, allowing first cycle teachers to teach in higher years and vice versa. This reorganization aims to create a more coherent school pathway adapted to current education challenges.
The Minister of Education, Fernando Alexandre, stated that first cycle teachers will see their initial workload reduced as part of this reform. This reduction aims to compensate for the greater versatility that will be required from teachers with the implementation of the new integrated model.
The announcement comes at a time when the Portuguese education system is seeking to address growing concerns about teaching quality and the transition between cycles, with the Government defending that the merger will allow for a more coherent and personalized approach for students.
