Grupo de Aprendizagem Livre

Grupo de Aprendizagem Livre is a pedagogical project based at Quinta das Patas, in Colares, Sintra, dedicated to teenagers aged 12 to 16 who are enrolled in homeschooling. The group covers the academic content of the 7th, 8th and 9th grades through the lens of Waldorf pedagogy, emphasizing artistic activities, holistic learning and direct experience with nature. Main lessons run from 9am to 11am in immersive blocks of three to five weeks, allowing deep engagement with each subject from multiple perspectives — intellectual, emotional and practical. The project was founded in 2021 by Ana Estêvão, a biologist and Waldorf teacher, in response to a request from parents seeking a safe and healthy learning environment during the pandemic. In 2022, she invited Amarílis Anchieta and Filipa Rosado to join as teachers, bringing backgrounds in translation, literature and environmental education. Beyond academics, the group places strong emphasis on building a supportive community with parents, holding regular meetings to define goals, plan trips, camps, study visits and fundraising activities. The philosophy centers on helping each young person explore the question 'Who am I?', respecting individuality while fostering responsibility, consciousness and active participation in transforming the world. Rooted in respect for each stage of adolescent development, the project offers a rich, inspiring and emotionally safe alternative to conventional schooling, nurturing thinking, feeling and willing in equal measure.