On-site course

Portuguese Heritage & Schools

A Journey through Culture and Education - Connecting Traditions, Inspiring Future Classrooms.
Portuguese Heritage & Schools

This study visit provides international educators with a unique insight into the Portuguese educational landscape and its rich cultural heritage. Through school visits, job-shadowing opportunities, and historical explorations, participants will gain an understanding of how Portugal integrates innovation with its heritage. Explore the Algarve’s unique identity while discussing educational policies, inclusion, and the digital transition with local peers.

The offer is flexible from 3 to 6 days.

Main contents

  • The Portuguese Educational System: Overview of structures, reforms, and the "Autonomy and Curriculum Flexibility" program
  • School Observation: On-site visits to local schools (Primary to Secondary) to observe infrastructures and teaching methods
  • Cultural Identity: Exploring the historical layers of the Algarve (Roman, Moorish, and Maritime discoveries)
  • Inclusive Education: Understanding the "Special Education" framework and how schools support diversity
  • Community & Tradition: The role of local community, arts, and crafts in the school curriculum

* The course is held in the English language. An English A2 (CEFR) level is recommended, but trainers are experienced in helping students with English language difficulties.

* El curso se imparte en lengua inglesa. Se recomienda un nivel de inglés A2 (MCER); no obstante, los formadores tienen experiencia en apoyar a estudiantes con dificultades lingüísticas. Además, se puede ofrecer apoyo en español si fuera necesario.

Course program

Day 1 — The Gateway: Context & Roman Roots

  • Welcome session: Introduction to the Portuguese School System (Policies and Structure)
  • Workshop: "The Digital Transition and Inclusion in Portuguese Schools."
  • Cultural Exploration: Guided tour of Faro’s Old Town (Vila Adentro)

Day 2 — School in Focus (Job Shadowing)

  • Morning School Visit: Observation of lessons and meetings with school management
  • Round table: Sharing best practices between participants and local teachers
  • Workshop: "Student Assessment and National Examinations in Portugal."
  • Evening: Faro Networking Dinner (Typical Portuguese Cuisine)

Day 3 — Heritage & The Sea

  • Cultural Immersion: The History of the Discoveries – Visit Loulé heritage
  • Discussion: "How History and Geography shape the National Identity and School Projects."
  • Outdoor pedagogical activity: Using local heritage as a "living classroom."
  • Note: For 3-day visits, this includes the final reflection and certification

Day 4 — Innovation & Specialized Support (Optional)

  • Cultural activity: Boat trip to the Ria Formosa barrier islands to discuss environmental education and sustainability
  •  Or visit to a Vocational School or Special Education Center (CREE)
  • Free afternoon for independent cultural research or job-shadowing follow-ups

Day 5 — Evaluation & The Blue Economy

  • Understanding the partnership between schools and local industry
  • Final reflection: Comparing European educational systems
  • Course Evaluation & Certification

* Course may suffer adjustments depending on the kind of visit.

 

Note: The course program can be changed according to participant's profile, local holidays or on the availability of schools to visit.

 

Target group

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Course methodology
  • Short theoretical sessions regarding the educational system and Portuguese history
  • Direct Observation (Study Visits): Guided visits to educational institutions (primary to secondary) and interaction with local teaching staff
  • Experiential Learning: Field activities in historical and cultural heritage sites (learning outside the classroom)
  • Comparative Debates: Discussion groups to compare the educational systems of participating countries and identify points for innovation
 

Course fees

Course fee: 0,00€ per participant (click for detail)

60€ each for the 3 days

35*75=2625 - 105€ = 2520€

3€ por pessoa para escola - 105€ + valor jantar 8€ pessoa (280€)

11 a 13 de outubro

 

 

 

 

Certification

  • Participants receive a Certificate of Participation and a Declaration of Acquired Competences, recognising the learning outcomes achieved

  • Acquired competences may be validated through the Europass Mobility framework, in accordance with national procedures (Visit Europass mobility website)

  • The course is aligned with the European Framework for the Digital Competence of Educators (DigCompEdu), with supporting documentation provided to facilitate recognition and transfer of competences

     

 

Accommodation and Meals
  • Participants are responsible for booking and paying for their own accommodation
  • ACJ guides accommodation options across different price categories
  • Participants are free to choose their preferred hotels and restaurants
  • Accommodation and meals are paid directly by participants to the respective service providers, with receipts provided
  • Lunch and coffee breaks are available in or around the University of Algarve, where the course takes place
Planned course editions
  • 2026-04-27 to 2026-05-01, Loulé, Algarve, Portugal (Opened)
  • 2026-10-12 to 2026-10-16, Loulé, Algarve, Portugal (Opened)