01 / Learn
Subject study
Maths, languages, science and other subjects are explored through explanation, practice and discussion.
Children study together, work at their own pace and follow ideas further.
A different kindof education.
Espinhal · Central Portugal
Families and educators work together in Espinhal, with study, creative projects and time outdoors as part of the week.
Explore Waterfall ValleyOur approach
Learning in
everyday life
Children need time to understand what they are learning and opportunities to put it into practice.
We are inspired by a range of educational approaches, drawing on what is useful for the children and the setting. Academic study sits alongside expressive arts, practical work and self-enquiry.
Relationships matter here. Children have time to get to know one another and the adults around them, to work independently and to learn together. Families and educators keep talking about what each child needs as they grow.
Some of what we do
- Reading, writing & practical maths
- Gardening, building & time outdoors
- Music, theatre & making things
Ways of learning
02 / CreateMusic, drama
Music, drama
and storytelling
Children draw, paint, write, make music and take part in drama.
There is time to practise a skill, create something together and experiment with an idea.
03 / ExploreLearning
Learning
in the valley
Gardening, bushcraft, movement and practical projects give children things to notice, question and try.
Time outdoors also leaves room to explore and play.
04 / Together
Community life
Shared meals, work days and village events bring children, families and educators together.
Children also take part in preparing, organising and caring for the shared spaces.
Scroll to exploreSwipe sideways to explore
Our spaces
The valley
and the village
Two settings in the hills of central Portugal, connecting time in nature with village life.
01
The Valley
Outdoor activities, gardening, bushcraft and space for movement, play and practical work.
02
The Village House
Classrooms in Espinhal for academic study, creative projects, research and time together.
Espinhal · Penela · Coimbra
Portuguese & English
Two languages
in everyday use
Both Portuguese and English are spoken, with the aim of developing Portuguese fluency.
Home education
A learning
community
Waterfall Valley supports home-educating families. We are not a registered school; families arrange their child’s educational registration.
How it worksOur community
Families and educators,
working together
Families, educators and volunteers contribute through teaching, cooking, gardening, maintenance and sharing their skills.
We welcome families from different countries. Friendships grow through ordinary days, shared work, festivals and village events.
Joining the project
Through the year
Work days, workshops, markets and celebrations bring families together beyond the weekly timetable.
Social action & self-enquiry
Being part of the wider community
Our programme includes getting to know the people and places around us. Shared projects, local events and time with different generations help children understand where they live and how they can contribute.
Self-enquiry is part of these relationships too. We make time to listen, ask questions and notice our own thoughts and reactions, including when we disagree. These conversations help us understand one another and take responsibility for how we live together.
From our families
Parents’
experiences
The educators and community have the talent to really connect with the children and build a special bond with them. Thank you for the passion from the whole team.
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!
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.
I feel incredibly grateful to have discovered Waterfall Valley. It’s more than an education space, it’s a truly holistic learning environment where children are not only educated, but deeply seen, heard, and respected as a community.
01 / 04
Visiting & enrolment
Visit
Waterfall Valley
Tell us about your family, ask for a brochure or arrange a time to visit the project.
