Exploring Alternatives

Hi Portugal Lovers!

Did you know that there is an alternative public school in São Miguel island, Azores?

We have a guided visit to Escola Novas Rotas by the two families: A Pequena Grande Casa  and Quinta do Bom Despacho, as their children are students from this school.

It is a school without classes and with an unconventional organisation.

It follows the national school curriculum and all learning moments are identified and have correspondence, but the students are free to investigate the topics in several ways and take their own rhythm, so easily a student can be in the 6th year in one area of knowledge and in the 4th year in another area.

Teachers are seen as mentors and a guide to help to accomplish the curricular components.

Students have assemblies and make important decisions at school. They are also responsible for establishing the rules of coexistence, as well as solving problems or conflict situations.

There are boards in the rooms where they post what they want to learn and when.

From an early age, they are responsible for finding their method, plan and rhythm of study. We believe they will certainly be much better prepared to work in the future unsupervised, or on their own projects, or remotely for other companies.

It remains to be said that since it is a public school, this entire education system is approved and recognized.

This model is based on the assumptions of Holistic Education and is inspired by the  Escola da Ponte, in Santo Tirso, north of Portugal. If you don't know them yet, you can contact them and schedule a visit. I visited both schools and it is super inspiring!