A different kind of education.
Waterfall Valley Education
We are a community of parents and educators working together to support children and young people through a holistic and practical learning journey. Our approach draws from various educational methods and is shaped by the shared values of the families and teachers involved.
We support families who choose home education with a curriculum that nurtures the child as a whole, mind, body, emotions, and spirit. Learning here is hands-on, meaningful, and flexible, with space for each child to grow at their own pace.
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philosophy
oUR
We see learning as part of everyday life, not something separate from it. Our approach follows natural rhythms and supports each child’s curiosity and growth, intellectually, emotionally, and socially. Learning here is practical, thoughtful, and personal.
During the schedule we make time for reflection and open conversations around topics that come up naturally as humans. Rather than teaching fixed answers, we encourage children to ask questions, think for themselves, and make sense of the world in a way that’s meaningful to them.
Spaces
The
Waterfall Valley Education is nestled in the hills of central Portugal, surrounded by native trees, rolling landscapes, and vibrant wildlife, the perfect natural classroom. As the river winds its way through the land, it forms the beautiful waterfalls that give the valley its name.
Our community has two unique spaces: the Valley, where children engage in Gardening, Yoga, Bushcraft, Dance, Sports, Archery and more. Then the Village House, a bright, welcoming building in Espinhal village. Each offers its own beauty and atmosphere, supporting a variety of learning experiences.
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What language
do we speak?
Whats the schedule?
Are we a school?
Our days are filled with workshops, academics and adventures!
We run 4 days a week Monday to Thursday from 9am - 4.15pm.
Both Portuguese and English are spoken with a goal in Portuguese fluency.
We are a learning community that fulfils the educational and holistic needs of your child in collaboration with families.
"The educators have the talent to really connect with the children and build a special bond with them. Thankyou for the passion from the whole team"
Laura Marjolin
"Our son has changed and matured into himself here in under a year with a new found passion and confidence for learning. What is available here is truly golden and unique!"
Jayne & Julian
"The project is extraordinary. Like nature it will not fit in a box and therefore I don't have the words to properly describe just how extraordinary it is"
Lisa-Jane & Jean-Stephan
"I feel incredibly grateful to have discovered waterfall valley, It’s more than a education space, it’s a truly holistic learning environment where children are not only educated, but deeply seen, heard, and respected."
Jimbo
community
The
Building together
Our project is built through shared effort. Families, educators, and volunteers work side by side, teaching, cooking, gardening, finance and sharing their life/work skills and insights. This is an important part of our ethos and structure.
Whos involved?
We welcome families from all over the world, forming a multicultural, supportive community. Many families build lasting friendships which is what makes the community so special. We plan and join all kinds of event throughout the year!
The yearly Calendar
From festivals to cabaret, local markets and holiday events, our community celebrates all year. We also join village events, host creative workshops, and share stories with our neighbours. The Valley has many stories!
Support in the form of time, skills, or donations is vital to our project. The community has been essential, contributing financial resources, time, and talents. If you would like to talk to us about volunteering or other ways to help, please contact us by email. We are currently raising funds to renovate our new learning space. If you’d like to help, please click the button below.
Thank you very much!
Supporting our project
