Immersion in Balearic Culture: How Agora Portals Integrates Local Traditions into Its Curriculum

In an increasingly globalised world, promoting knowledge of local culture and traditions is something we should never overlook. Schools are the ideal place to do so — where, from a young age, students can explore, understand and truly appreciate the value of Balearic culture.

For this reason, at Agora Portals International School, we believe that education goes far beyond textbooks. Our goal is to shape global citizens with strong roots, capable of valuing cultural diversity while also connecting with the environment in which they live. That is why integrating the culture and traditions of this beautiful island into our curriculum is not a complementary activity, but an essential part of our educational approach.

Why Is It Important to Learn About Local Culture?

Living in a rich and unique environment like Mallorca undoubtedly offers a unique educational opportunity. Balearic culture is steeped in history, art, traditions and values that help students better understand their community and their role within it. Learning about local customs, language, celebrations and the Mallorcan relationship with nature is also a way to cultivate respect, empathy and a sense of belonging.

On this island (and across the Balearic archipelago) international coexistence is a defining feature of its identity. Therefore, in a context where international schools in Mallorca welcome pupils of many nationalities, learning about local culture becomes a true bridge between communities. Encouraging an understanding of Mallorcan life and traditions helps students integrate into their surroundings while discovering that cultural roots and local values can coexist harmoniously with a global and open-minded perspective, strengthening a solid foundation of values-based education.

The Benefits of Cultural Integration in Education

Although it may seem like a small detail, integrating Balearic culture into our pupils’ education brings multiple academic and personal benefits. From our experience at Agora Portals, we can highlight the following:

• Developing a sense of identity. Students learn to value their environment and cultural heritage, forming an emotional connection with their community.
• Encouraging empathy and respect. By discovering and participating in local traditions, pupils learn to appreciate different ways of life, beliefs and customs.
• Values-based education. Hospitality, respect for nature and community life are key pillars of Mallorcan culture, reflected in our educational model.
• Experiential learning. Culture is lived, not only studied. Through real experiences, pupils gain knowledge in a meaningful and lasting way.

How We Promote Awareness of Balearic Culture at Agora Portals

Yes, we are an international school with a strong multilingual project, where English plays a leading role. Our educational model is based on genuine language immersion, enabling students to master both of the region’s co-official languages and learn additional international ones such as French, German and Mandarin Chinese. At Agora Portals, we also promote a variety of initiatives that bring students closer to Balearic culture, strengthening their values-based education and combining a global dimension with deep local roots.

Cultural Activities

At Agora Portals, we approach local culture in a cross-curricular way, linking academic subjects with real experiences that encourage active learning, both inside and outside the classroom. Students take part in activities designed to promote immersion in Balearic culture, adapted to each educational stage.

Excursions, Festivities and Interdisciplinary Projects

Direct contact with history and traditions is essential. That’s why we organise excursions to emblematic sites around Mallorca and to traditional craft workshops, where students can observe trades such as pottery or glassblowing first-hand. Local festivities, such as Sant Antoni, the Diada de Mallorca, and traditional fairs, are also part of our school calendar. Pupils learn about their origins, meaning and values, and take part in activities inspired by these celebrations.

In addition, we develop interdisciplinary projects that connect subjects to explore Balearic culture from different perspectives including through our STEAM project, which encourages creativity and innovation across all areas of learning.

International Education with Local Roots

As one of the leading international schools in Mallorca, and recognised among the Forbes 2025 Best Schools, Agora Portals combines academic excellence with a strong foundation in values and a deep connection to local culture. In this way, our students not only prepare for a demanding, globalised future but also learn to value, care for and respect the world around them.

Being part of Agora Portals International School means giving your child a complete and enriching educational experience. Discover our school and everything we have to offer; download our brochure today.