Supporting Nature-Based Learning through the Bosque Escola Avelas Forest School in Portugal
act for transformation geG
Descalças Cooperativa Integral
Marvão, Portugal
Description
Bosque Escola Avelas is a forest school located in a beautiful natural setting near Marvão, Portugal. The project is rooted in nature, creativity, and community, and provides children with a supportive environment where they can learn, play, and grow through outdoor experiences and child-centred learning. Volunteers become part of the daily life of the school, supporting experienced educators in activities with children aged 2 to 12 years. Volunteers work with either the younger "Esquilos" group (ages 2–5/6) or the older "Raposas" group (ages 6+). They assist with educational and creative activities, support children's wellbeing, participate in community life, and occasionally help with practical tasks such as kitchen support. The project offers an opportunity to gain experience in alternative education and outdoor learning while living in a peaceful rural environment. Volunteers learn from experienced educators, develop new skills, and become part of a welcoming community.
Accommodation, food and transport arrangements
Volunteers are accommodated in a shared house near the school in Portagem, which is shared with other volunteers. The house has three bedrooms, outdoor space, and air conditioning. Lunch and dinner are provided daily through the project's social canteen. Local transport is arranged with support from the community when needed. Travel to and from Portugal is reimbursed according to ESC rules, and volunteers receive a daily allowance for personal expenses.
Training during the activity
Volunteers receive continuous support throughout their stay. They work closely with experienced forest school educators and learn through daily practice and observation. In addition, volunteers take part in at least one training weekend during their volunteering period and have regular meetings with a mentor, who provides guidance and support whenever needed. The project offers valuable learning opportunities in outdoor education, child-centred learning, community living, and non-formal education.
Participant profile
We are looking for motivated young people aged 18–30 from Germany who are interested in education, nature, creativity, and community life. Volunteers should enjoy working with children, be patient, open-minded, and willing to learn. Experience with children, outdoor education, or forest school approaches is an advantage, but not required. Applicants should feel comfortable living in a quiet rural environment and participating actively in community life. A good knowledge of English, Portuguese, or Spanish is necessary for communication with the team and children.
Activity dates
From 14/09/2026 to 30/06/2027
Activity location
Quinta das Avelãs, R. da Calçada, Marvão, Portugal
Activity type
Individual volunteering
Looking for participants from
Germany
Activity topics
Social challenges
Environment and natural protection
Education and training
Creativity and culture
Deadline for applications
Application deadline: 15/07/2026 23:59
Project code
2026-1-DE04-ESC51-VTJ-000404282