Associação Aprendizes da Terra
Our Association Aprendizes da Terra is dedicated to promoting and supporting homeschooling and alternative education, contributing to the educational, social, and community development of member families and their children.
To fulfill this mission, we commit to:
- Organizing educational and pedagogical activities for homeschooled children;
- Creating and maintaining learning and coworking spaces for homeschooling families;
- Hosting events, meetings, and training sessions focused on alternative education;
- Establishing partnerships with public and private entities to advance homeschooling;
- Providing logistical support and transportation, including the acquisition and management of vehicles for members and other operational needs;
- Offering financial assistance to families in need, ensuring all children have access to the educational opportunities provided by the association. Eligibility criteria and application processes are outlined in the association’s internal regulations;
- Raising funds through donations, grants, and sponsorships, as long as they align with the association’s mission and values.
Campus da Terra is a project of our association that offers a democratic, nature-based learning environment for homeschooling families. Children learn in small, multilingual groups through self-directed activities, thematic projects, and regular excursions. The daily rhythm balances free play, collaborative learning, and individual exploration in a supportive community setting.
Board
Board of Direction

Annika Friese
President of the Board

Catherine Schubiger
Board Secretary

Nils Friese
Treasurer
Supervisory Board

Felix Richter
President of Supervisory Board

Currently Vacant
Supervisory Board Member

Frederico Caires
Supervisory Board Member
Heads of General Assembly

Riitta Lehtinen
President of General Assembly

Maksym Petrenko
Secretary of General Assembly

Giulia Leoni
Secretary of General Assembly
Become an Active Member
Together, we’re growing opportunities for alternative education and community on Madeira.
Individuals who actively participate in the Association’s activities and events, hold voting rights in the General Assembly, and may be elected to serve on the governing bodies.
Rights:
- Participate in the General Assembly and vote on resolutions.
- Access the Association’s financial and operational reports.
- Support the mission and objectives of the Association.
- Use the amount of the membership fee towards the tuition fee at Campus da Terra (50€ / month, as set in October 2025)
Duties:
- Pay the annual membership fee as set in the pricing list (50€ / month, as set in October 2025)
- Comply with the Statutes, Internal Regulations, Policies and decisions of the
Association’s governing bodies. - Contribute positively to the community and support the educational philosophy
of the Association.
Committees
PR, Sales & Marketing
Catherine Schubiger
PR & Sales
Nina Reiss
Social Media
Giulia Leoni
Public Events
Vacant
Sales
Fundraising, Grants & Government Funding
Felix Richter
Fundraising
Nadia Laabs
Grants
Luís Freitas
EU Funding
Community & Parent Support
Riitta Forss
Head of Community
Melanie Müller-Hoffmann
Seasonal Events
Infrastructure, Inventory & Sustainability
Annika Friese
Acquisition
Nina Suza Reiss
Planning and Implementation
Riitta Lehtinen
Planning and Implementation
Curriculum & Educational Development
Laura Locatelli
Curriculum R&D, Implementation
Annika Friese
Curriculum R&D
Catherine Schubiger
Curriculum R&D
Giulia Leoni
Implementation
Emília Sousa
Implementation
Health, Safety & Wellbeing
Vacant
Health and Safety
Vacant
Mental Wellbeing
Transportation
Roel Heremans
Head of Westside
Vacant
Head of Eastside
On-Site Learning Facilitator

Giulia Leoni
B.A. Art Education
M.A. Sculpture
Giulia holds a degree in Art Education and a Master’s in Sculpture, bringing her creativity and passion for nature to Campus da Terra. With experience in artistic, museum, and educational sectors, she will lead art and nature projects, free play as well as hands-on science classes, encouraging students to explore and connect with the natural world. Giulia’s approach fosters creativity, environmental stewardship, and personal growth, providing students with dynamic, experiential learning opportunities.
Guest Tutors

Mara Nóbrega
Social and Emotional Intelligence

Daniela Barros
Permaculture

Nina Suza Reiss
Yoga & Mindfulness

Catherine Flores
Music

Annika Friese
Coding
Although we aren’t hiring at the moment, we are always looking for passionate people who want to bring their skills to Campus da Terra.
Reach out at info@campusdaterra.org