Learning with meaning, method, and continuity.
In Primary School, we deepen learning within a consistent and supported journey.
Primary School as a Stage of Consolidation
Relationships continue to be the foundation of the process. It is from this foundation that autonomy, responsibility, and a love of learning are built.
In this cycle, we deepen reading, writing, mathematical thinking, and the ability to investigate the world. Learning now requires greater organisation and continuity, within a structured and supported journey.
The work is developed in alignment with the Essential Learning defined by the Ministry of Education for the Portuguese curriculum, integrated into our own pedagogical organisation, which prioritises understanding, method, and consistent progression.
CRIAR’s rigour lies in the system: in the way we plan, support, and assess the work. The child is supported to grow within a clear structure, rather than being pressured by isolated expectations.
How Primary School Is Experienced at CRIAR
Day-to-day life is organised around a structured system, where learning, autonomy, and participation go hand in hand.
Structured Learning
The work is planned with clarity and continuity. Learning develops progressively, with regular support and consistent review.
Cooperative Organisation
We are inspired by practices from the Modern School Movement, such as the individual work plan and the class council, integrating them into CRIAR’s own vision.
Autonomy with Responsibility
Each child learns to plan, carry out, and review their work within a stable structure, developing personal organisation and a sense of commitment.
Critical Thinking and Research
Projects and research encourage analysis, argumentation, and the ability to synthesise, connecting different areas of knowledge.
Holistic Education
The academic journey is integrated with artistic expression, the body, relationships, and emotional development.
What Is Part of Our Everyday Life
Throughout the week, the work is organised in a structured way, combining academic learning and personal development.
- Pedagogical Organisation
- Independent study, cooperative work, and collective moments of systematisation
- Interdisciplinary projects
- Individual work plan
- Weekly class council
- Academic Consolidation
- Reading and writing with consistent progression
- Structured mathematical thinking
- Integration of science and environmental studies
- Oral and written production with review and further development
- Personal and Social Development
- “Growing from Within” Workshop
- Spaces for listening and support
- Conflict mediation and self-regulation
- Expression and Enrichment
- Visual Arts and Music
- Physical Education
- Cooking
- Outdoor activities and contact with nature
- Close Support
- Full-time school psychologist
- Regular coordination between the pedagogical team and the therapeutic team
How We Support Each Child’s Journey
Assessment is part of everyday life and takes place throughout the process, not only at isolated moments. We observe, record, and reflect with the child on their work, continuously supporting their progress.
We use assessment and consolidation tools, integrated into the learning journey and without relying on one-off tests as the sole criterion for assessment.
We follow processes, not just results.
Words from Those Who Are Part of CRIAR
Experiences lived in the day-to-day life of the school.
Any Questions? We Have the Answers.
The school is open from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. School hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
All meals are provided by the school, including the morning snack, lunch, and afternoon snack. All meals are prepared daily in our kitchen, using mostly organic food, respecting seasonality and excluding processed products.
In Years 1 and 2, children have 1 hour of English lessons per week as part of the curriculum. In Years 3 and 4, they have 2 hours of English lessons per week as part of the curriculum. In addition, the English teacher joins some moments of the daily routine as well as projects.
The main work takes place at school, within an organised system that allows children to plan, carry out, and review tasks with support.
There may be occasional moments of consolidation at home, but not as a daily routine or as a means of pressure. The aim is for time outside school to also be a space for rest, relationships, and autonomy.
Difficulties are monitored continuously, not only when they become evident. The pedagogical team regularly coordinates with the school psychologist and other professionals at the school, adjusting strategies within the classroom whenever necessary. When we identify the need for additional support, this is provided in an integrated way and in dialogue with the family.
The focus is on understanding the child’s process and adapting the system, rather than on labelling.
Yes. The academic journey is aligned with the Essential Learning defined for the Portuguese curriculum. The difference lies in how we organise the work, the tools we use, and how we support each student, prioritising understanding, method, and continuity.
Preparation takes place throughout the journey, through academic consolidation, personal organisation, and the development of autonomy.
At the end of Primary School, children are used to planning their work, managing responsibilities, and actively participating in their learning — essential skills for the next stage.
The transition is supported in coordination between teams, ensuring continuity and security throughout the journey.
Would You Like to Get to Know CRIAR at Your Own Pace?
We are available to talk or welcome you for a visit.