Meet Cerejeiras
30th September 2026, 7:00–8:00 pm
Online meeting for interested parents. Contact us to receive the link!
Cerejeiras –
Learning Community in Central Portugal
Since 2016
Cerejeiras is a Portuguese-speaking, community-based learning project where every child discovers who they are and who they can become. Through a holistic blend social-emotional learning, we nurture resilient, open-hearted individuals who form deep connections and are prepared to navigate the challenges of an ever-changing world.
What is the age range of the children in this project?
3 — 14 years
How many children are currently enrolled in the project?
~ 50 children
Which language is primarily spoken?
Portuguese
Our Approach
We believe each child’s individuality should be respected and placed at the centre of daily life within the community. For this reason, we draw inspiration from a range of child-centred and alternative learning traditions, adapting elements that feel meaningful and appropriate to the people who are part of the community.
The community environment encourages children to make choices, follow their interests and engage actively with the world around them. Through lived experience, relationships and exploration, children are supported in developing confidence, curiosity, reflective thinking and a lasting enjoyment of discovery.
There is no one-size-fits-all model, but rather space for each child to follow their own path, at their own pace, within a shared and supportive community setting.
Why we love Cerejeiras for our children
Democratic Values
Children take an active role in their learning. They develop responsibility and contribute to decisions that affect their learning life.
Nature & Rural Setting
Learning beyond the rooms. Nature walks and field excursions in rural surroundings creates a connection with life.
Learning Through Play
Play is the foundation of learning. Through carefully curated play experiences, children develop critical thinking, creativity, and social skills.
Personal attention
With small groups (max. 12) and parental involvement, every child is seen, heard, and valued.
Emotional Intelligence
To understand and express feelings, build empathy and develop strong social connections is how we prepare children for a changing world.
Portuguese educational context
Families may choose homeschooling within the Portuguese public system, with the community offering a supportive environment that helps children develop confidence and familiarity for future learning paths, including public schooling.
Casper, father of Joshua
»Our son At Cerejeiras he really blossomed and opened up
Thanks to the approach and help of the excellent mentors at Cerejeiras
Thank you so much!«
Joske, mother of Stef, Eef and Neel
»We are happy our children get educated in a way they can explore what they like and who they are as a person.«
Karo, mother of Pit
»...For the first time in his life my son asked to stay longer when I came to pick him up. He has found friends. He feels valued and safe.«
Community Life
Taking part in your childs education
Cerejeiras is a fully community-driven project. The community is stewarded by a board made up of actively involved parents whose children are part of Cerejeiras. Families, facilitators and children collaborate to shape a familiar, welcoming and inspiring environment where relationships and shared experiences are at the heart of daily life.
Parents are encouraged to contribute their knowledge, skills and interests to the community, sharing what they love through workshops, activities and collaborative projects that arise naturally from the group. This active involvement strengthens relationships, encourages a sense of responsibility and nurtures a deep feeling of belonging within the community.
A strong network of friends
Cerejeiras has become an important meeting point for many international and local families in the region, creating a diverse and vibrant network of relationships that extend well beyond the community space itself. These connections often grow into lasting friendships and mutual support between families.
We are proud to be part of a new generation of families choosing to live, connect and grow together in Portugal, grounded in shared values, openness and community life.
Join the Community
Interested in joining the Cerejeiras community for the 2025–2026 year? We encourage families to visit the community space, spend time with the people involved and get a feel for daily life together before making a decision.
A limited number of places are available, as group size is intentionally kept small to support meaningful relationships and a shared sense of community. If you are interested, we recommend getting in touch early to explore whether Cerejeiras is a good fit for your family.
Contact us
If you have any questions, suggestions or offers please write to us.
