School Programs
A transformative learning experience
About Waves & Minds
We provide students with a transformative learning experience designed to enrich traditional education, based in Ericeira, Portugal and available internationally.
Combining Surfing and Emotional Intelligence, students learn to navigate adversity, regulate their emotions, and build meaningful connections, essential skills that strengthen their personal growth, enhance academic performance, and boost their confidence in everyday life.
emotional intelligence
Surfing
“Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.”
— Benjamin Franklin
“Surfista Joana Rocha: programa de autoconhecimento pelas ondas chega às escolas”
Why schools need this more than ever?
Mental health, and social skills
In the face of this, Waves & Minds reconnects teens with themselves, others, and nature: through movement, emotional training, and cultural exchange.
Our approach improves mental health, confidence, and social skills.
Our school programs
Rise & Grow
Rise & Grow
Respect & belonging
Respect & belonging
Feel to Heal
Feel to Heal
Lead from within
Lead from within
True confidence
True confidence
Digital Balance
Digital Balance
Want to receive our School Program ?
Benefits
Why should your school take part ?
Schools that invest in Social Emotional Learning (SEL) benefits in many different levels:
- Improved Academic performances
- Better classroom behavior and social skills
- Higher student engagement and motication
- Stronger School Communities
- Healthier & happier studnets (& parents!)
Our offers
Flexible format for every school
Contact us to find the best use case for your school and needs, we’ll be happy to help you decide on the format that fits best!
Half-day
Program-
For awareness and team-building
1-day
Program-
For a deeper exploration through reflection, group dynamics, and creativity
Weekend
Program-
Two full days of nature, connection and emotional growth
Full-week
Immersion-
Transformational impact through practice and reflection
Long journey
Program-
A tailor-made emotional education across the school year
Questions?
FAQ
Are the programs in English or Portuguese?
We offer programs in both English and Portuguese, depending on the needs of your school and students. Joana is bilingual and adapts the language to create a more inclusive and engaging experience.
Can we run this without surf?
Absolutely. While surf is a powerful tool for connection and growth, the program can be delivered without surf, using movement, nature-based games, creative expression, mindfulness, and emotional intelligence activities.
Is this aligned with our school calendar?
Yes, we work in full alignment with your school calendar, adapting the program’s format, duration, and content to fit your existing schedule, whether for a one-day experience or a longer journey throughout the year.
What qualifications do the facilitators have?
The program is led by Joana Rocha, a pioneer in emotional education through surf and embodiment in Portugal.
She brings over 25 years of experience working with children and teenagers, and a career of 17 years as a professional surf athlete.
A Program created by Joana Rocha
Surf Champion & Youth Therapist
Joana holds a variety of certifications, including: Surfing Coach Level II / Sports Mental Coaching / Kids & Teens Coaching / Meditation and Emotional Support for Children & Awareness Facilitator: trained in psychocorporal therapy through Working with Satya School, with a focus on awakening presence and emotional awareness
She combines this rich background to create a safe, empowering and transformative learning space for young people.
