Penacova School Group is a prominent educational cluster located in the
charming town of Penacova, approximately 20 kilometers from Coimbra. Situated
within the Intermunicipal Community of the Coimbra Region (CIM-RC), Penacova
spans an area of 217 km² and comprises eight parishes. The Penacova School Group is
made up of 13 educational institutions, providing education from preschool to
secondary levels:

Our Mission and Vision
At Penacova School Group, we foster a sense of belonging among students,
teachers, and staff. Inclusion is a core value, as a non-inclusive school cannot be
considered a quality school. We offer multidisciplinary programs in arts, languages,
sports, reading, and science (Living Science Club Network), and participate in national
and international projects, particularly through ERASMUS+ programs.
Our commitment is to provide tailored pedagogical responses to the
characteristics, needs, and interests of our students, enabling them to acquire
competencies for contemporary society and realize their potential. Our mission and
vision are built on two pillars: the School and the Educational Community, reflected in
our motto: “A SCHOOL OPEN TO THE WORLD.”

Educational Approach
We believe that education should raise awareness of individual roots, equipping
students with the references needed to situate themselves in the world while teaching
respect for others, empathy, and solidarity. Education’s mission is also to provide all
available means for the harmonious development of everyone.

Our Key Values and Goals
Our mission is to provide high-quality education, preparing children and
students to understand and act upon societal dynamics, ensuring equal learning
opportunities for all. Our vision is to be recognized as:

• A leading public institution known for quality teaching and training.
• An inclusive community that respects differences, values humanistic
  principles, creativity, and innovation, and actively contributes to local social and
  cultural development.
• A quality environment, internally and through partnerships with the community
  and institutions.
  Our core values include Commitment, Excellence, Rigor, Efficiency,
  Responsibility, Inclusion, Equity, Respect, Solidarity, Tolerance, Cooperation, Freedom,
  Awareness, Curiosity, Creativity, Innovation, and Environmental Protection.

Key Initiatives

One of our significant projects is the “MindSerena” initiative, an educational
model focused on socio-emotional and ethical learning and personal development.
MindSerena is based on mindfulness principles, socio-emotional competencies (CSE),
and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Its mission is to cultivate a culture of
well-being, both personally and socially, and to foster ethical actions that encourage
self-care, caring for others, and caring for nature. The project aims to develop human
values, socio-emotional and attentional skills, and conscious presence, benefiting
students, teachers, parents, and other educational agents.

Conclusion
Penacova School Group stands as a beacon of inclusive and holistic education,
committed to the growth and development of its students and the broader educational
community. With our motto “A SCHOOL OPEN TO THE WORLD,” we continue to
evolve, embracing the future while staying rooted in our values and traditions.

Website: https://www.aepenacova.pt/home