Schools
A Quinta
Think, Learn, Do!
At Open Learning School A Quinta, we offer an innovative pedagogy that respects each student’s individual learning pace and interests starting from early childhood. Personalized learning takes place in spacious environments designed to support holistic development. Located in the town of Seixal, the school is set within a landscape that harmonizes nature and transformation.
We are a certified BabySigns school!
Connection with nature
High tutor-to-child ratio
Mixed-age inclusion
Community involvement
Personal growth
Culinary exploration
Our world
Our world
The place that welcomes and educates
At our school, every environment is a learning space that contributes to children's development.
An environment of over 6,000m²
A magical place in the heart of the city
Family vegetable garden
See and sense nature’s cycle
Sharing library
A place for reading and knowledge exchange
Art and music
A unique and engaging approach
Creative workshops
From art to technology: diverse ways to learning
Proximity and connection
A collaborative space between children, tutors and family
FAQs
How is the adaptation period handled?
The adaptation process takes place with the presence of the family, respecting each child’s individual pace. They can stay at school as long as needed (30 minutes or 3 hours), together or separately. We believe a child will only feel comfortable when parents leave feeling calm and confident, which takes time. Parents need to have the opportunity to observe how we interact with their children. The pace varies from family to family.
How many adults are there per group?
Our ratios range from 1 adult for every 4 children (ages 6 months to 2 years) to 1 adult for every 12 children (up to 15 years old).
How do you manage conflicts?
We encourage autonomy by helping children learn to resolve conflicts among themselves. If needed, they know they can ask an adult to help facilitate a direct dialogue. In those situations, we promote empathy and reinforce that physically or verbally aggressive behavior is not an option.
What are the school hours?
The school is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Educational activities begin at 9:30 AM and end at 4:30 PM.
How do children adapt to traditional education after attending A Quinta?
So far, no child has transitioned from our school to a traditional system. However, we are inspired by examples such as Escola da Ponte and Escola Aberta in Brazil, where this model has shown transformative results. We believe these children develop essential tools like self-awareness, self-esteem, and autonomy, enabling a school journey filled with achievement, empowerment, and personal fulfillment.
Is a uniform required?
No. Each child can wear whatever clothes they like and feel comfortable in.
Besides tuition, are there any other costs associated with my child’s activities?
No. All workshops and field trips are included in the tuition. There may be optional extracurricular activities offered outside of core learning hours.
Does the Open Learning School accept students who speak languages other than Portuguese?
Yes. We welcome children of all nationalities.
Is it necessary to speak English to join the Open Learning School?
No. The Open Learning School team is fluent in Portuguese, although other languages like English, Spanish, and German may also be present.
How do foreign students adapt to the Open Learning School?
Very naturally and surprisingly quickly. At these ages, the ability to learn new languages is truly amazing, and even without a shared language, children begin interacting and playing from day one. In these situations, modern technology is a valuable tool for voice-based communication and translation.
What percentage of students at the Open Learning School are foreign?
Around 10% to 15% have foreign nationalities, and about 30% have international backgrounds.
What is the process for enrolling my child?
We invite all families to come visit our space and see firsthand how we operate and apply our pedagogy. If, after the visit, the Open Learning School team feels like the right fit for the family, the enrollment process begins via email.
Our location
