Colégio Helen Keller

Founded in 1955 by ophthalmologist Henrique Moutinho, pediatrician João dos Santos and pedagogue Maria Amália Borges, the Helen Keller Center was the first Portuguese school to integrate visually impaired students, strongly linked to the evolution of Special Education in our country. From that initial impetus, the first stones were launched at the Restelo facilities, which became the seeds of a unique journey in the Portuguese educational landscape. Essentially building an inclusion project, which has gone through several phases until today, our pedagogical model is based on the individualization of teaching and on the cognitive, social and emotional development of students, seeking to contribute to the structuring of a positive and autonomous self-concept. We value the methodologies advocated by the Modern School Movement, rigor in academic practices and the promotion of social skills that enhance full and conscious citizenship. On the other hand, we have a special mission to promote the integration of students with visual problems and other educational needs, making us unique. To this end, we have a multidisciplinary pedagogical team, able to respond to the demands of each and every one. The approximately 500 students currently attending the Helen Keller Center are spread over 27 classes (from Nursery to 9th grade). These data reflect the proximity that exists between all, as we continue to believe that smaller classes enhance school success and better inclusion for all. We are an institution that aims to promote social and academic values, providing healthy coexistence among all. Our mission is based on three fundamental pillars: • Ensure the inclusion of students with special educational needs; • Promote the academic success of all students; • Develop practices that promote full, conscious and active citizenship.