How We Learn Together
Portugal's Alternative Education
At Cerejeiras, we offer a community-based learning environment for families who wish to support their children’s growth outside of conventional schooling, while remaining mindful of the requirements and expectations faced by homeschooling families in Portugal. We recognise that every child has unique interests, abilities and rhythms, and we aim to support them in developing confidence, curiosity and independence over time.
The community creates a flexible and responsive learning environment that supports children in engaging with a broad range of experiences commonly encountered in everyday life and future learning contexts. While Cerejeiras is not a school and does not deliver formal education or a fixed curriculum, facilitators support families in creating conditions that help children become familiar with key areas of learning and skills that may be useful for future transitions, including entry into public schooling when families choose that path.
Where We're Taking Inspiration
Democratic Education
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Students take an active role in their education, deciding what, when, and how they learn.
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Learning happens inside and outside the classroom, through play, projects, and self-directed study.
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Students develop decision-making skills and take responsibility for their education.
Waldorf Inspiration
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Encourages creativity, imagination, and artistic expression.
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Follows the natural rhythm of child development.
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Integrates music, arts, and nature-based learning into daily education.
Montessori Elements
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Emphasizes independence, self-paced learning, and hands-on discovery.
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Children choose activities suited to their development stage.
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Promotes a lifelong love of learning.
Charlotte Mason Approach
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Focuses on narrative learning, outdoor exploration, and appreciation of arts and music.
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Uses journaling, dictation, and copywork to develop literacy.
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Encourages a connection with nature through observation and study.
A Private Educational Project with a Unique Approach
Our learning community was formed at a time when democratic schools, Montessori, and Waldorf education were not yet recognized in Portugal.
Our small-scale groups (max. 12 children) ensure individual attention and an interest-based learning approach.
We operate as a private learning community without government subsidies, relying on parental contributions to sustain our community.
Portuguese educational context
Families who are part of the Cerejeiras community may choose to register their children for homeschooling within the Portuguese public education system. Cerejeiras is not a school and does not deliver formal education or a prescribed curriculum. Responsibility for meeting legal homeschooling requirements rests with parents or legal guardians.
Children registered for homeschooling are enrolled at a designated public Portuguese school, as required by law. This registration process is managed by families, and the community can offer general guidance and share experiences to help parents navigate administrative procedures.
Homeschooling in Portugal is overseen by the Portuguese Ministry of Education, which is responsible for monitoring academic progress through periodic evaluations conducted by the assigned public school, as well as mandatory national assessments at specific stages of a child’s educational pathway. Cerejeiras provides a supportive community environment in which children can grow, explore interests and develop confidence alongside these external requirements, without acting as an educational provider.
The Benefits of the Cerejeiras Method
Over the past eight years, our approach has proven highly beneficial for children and families.
Our students develop:
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Self-motivation and engagement through meaningful learning experiences.
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A love for literature using living books instead of traditional textbooks.
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Clear communication skills through narration and storytelling.
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A strong foundation in art, music, and nature appreciation.
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Independence, empathy, and social awareness.
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.
