At Folha Verde, we believe that children are capable, curious, creative human beings and that education is a shared journey, not a one-way street. Nestled in a restored olive-press in the mountains of central Portugal, our project brings together community, nature and learning in one living space.
We are an association of facilitators, mentors, parents and friends who support home-educating families and children aged three to 14 with a creative, bi-lingual learning facility. What unites us is a commitment to trust, mutual respect and co-learning.
Our philosophy that learning happens when children feel safe, seen and empowered means our approach evolves naturally, letting curiosity lead the way and valuing emotional intelligence, communication and group-work as much as academic skills.
Our setting, surrounded by river, valley and woodland, means we can draw on our beautiful local landscape for lessons in ecology, craftsmanship, community and self-reliance. Whether we’re painting, playing, building, crafting or playing games, every moment holds potential. Our annual “July Open Month” invites new children to join us briefly, experience how we live and learn, and become part of our creative community. We also take one inclusive field trip each year, a chance to explore local museums, parks or other inspiring places and connect what we learn at home with the wider world.
In short: we are more than a school or a classroom. We are a living, breathing community of learning, rooted in nature, driven by curiosity and grounded in human connection. We invite you to join us.