For over 100 years, Luis de Camões Portuguese School, a cherished department of the Sport Club Portuguese, has been a beacon of Portuguese language and culture in Newark, New Jersey. However, what sets them apart is their remarkable journey of expanding beyond Newark, reaching out to students in the distant town of Warren.
In the late 1990s, recognizing the need to extend their cultural reach, the school established a campus in Warren, New Jersey. This initiative allowed children residing far from the Newark community to embrace their Portuguese heritage while acquiring fluency in the language.
With the emergence of the Covid-19 pandemic, the school faced unprecedented challenges, compelling them to halt operations temporarily. However, this setback did not deter the determined Luso American families in Warren. Over the last two years, in close collaboration with the Sport Club Portuguese, they worked tirelessly to resurrect the school.
Their collective dream has now been realized. Students in Warren and neighboring towns once again have the opportunity to learn the Portuguese language and immerse themselves in the rich cultural tapestry it offers. Classes are scheduled to take place every Friday from 4:30 PM to 7:00 PM at Our Lady of the Mount Church, 170 Mt Bethel Rd, Warren, NJ.
This achievement stands as a testament to the unwavering dedication of the Luso American community in Warren and neighboring towns who refused to give up on their vision.
For more information or to register, interested parents should visit luisdeCamoes.net or email info@luisdeCamoes.net.
About the Program
Luis de Camões Portuguese School offers a comprehensive Portuguese language program based on the Framework for Portuguese Education Abroad (QuaREPE), which serves as a fundamental assessment tool for students studying Portuguese Language Teaching Abroad (EPE). EPE is an educational initiative aimed at teaching Portuguese language and culture to children of Portuguese communities residing abroad.
The school is dedicated to promoting the learning of Portuguese Language and Culture to both Portuguese descendants and individuals interested in acquiring knowledge of the Portuguese language and culture. Luis de Camões School follows the general curriculum guidelines established by the Camões Institute for Cooperation and Language to develop essential skills.
The teaching approach emphasizes the development of the following Portuguese language competencies:
Oral comprehension
Oral expression
Reading
Writing
Throughout the academic year, which spans from September to June, the in-person classes are held on
Fridays from 4:30PM to 7PM at the Warren NJ Campus and Saturdays from 9 AM to 12 PM at the Newark NJ campus. During these hours, students have classwork and also participate in various activities designed to enhance their Portuguese language skills and foster an appreciation
for their heritage.
The student body comprises individuals aged between 5 and 18 years old, who have the option to undergo the Portuguese language certification process administered by the Camões Institute for Cooperation and Language, I.P. (website: www.instituto-Camões.pt). This certification is an elective examination available to all students.
Why Choose Luis de Camões School?
Established Legacy: With roots tracing back to the 1930s, Escola Luis de Camões boasts a long-standing reputation for excellence in teaching Portuguese as a second language. Generations have benefited from the linguistic and cultural connections fostered by this trusted and experienced institution.
Affiliation with Luis de Camões Institute: The school’s affiliation with the esteemed Luis de Camões Institute in Portugal ensures that its curriculum and teaching materials meet the highest standards. This association guarantees a quality education aligned with international norms.
Comprehensive Education: From pre-school to 9th grade, the school offers a thorough Portuguese language program accommodating students of all ages and proficiency levels. The curriculum focuses on developing essential language skills, enabling students to read, write, listen, and speak Portuguese fluently.
Well-Rounded Exposure: Beyond classroom instruction, Escola Luis de Camões encourages students to participate in a range of cultural activities and events. Through their affiliation with the Sport Club Portuguese, students can fully immerse themselves in Portuguese heritage and traditions.
Ideal Learning Environment: The Newark Campus, located in the historic Ironbound section, provides a modern, conducive learning environment. The school prioritizes creating a comfortable and engaging space to enhance students’ educational experience.
Proficiency and Accreditation: The school aims to ensure that students attain at least a B2 level of proficiency by the end of their seven years of schooling. This level is professionally required by QuaREPE, providing students with the language skills necessary for future academic and professional pursuits.
By choosing Escola Luis de Camões, parents not only offer their children a top-notch Portuguese language education but also open doors to a rich cultural heritage.