History and Experience
The Academia de Línguas da Madeira (ALM) is a non-profit association recognised with Public Utility Status. It was founded in 1977 and is the oldest language institution in the Autonomous Region of Madeira. Based in the centre of Funchal, ALM currently has branches in Machico, Santa Cruz, Estreito de Câmara de Lobos, Ribeira Brava, Ponta do Sol and Calheta.
ALM is attended mainly by children and teenagers, but it is open to people of all ages. We have different departments for children (ages 6 to 9), juniors (ages 10 to 13) and young people/adults (over 13). In the classroom, the informal and friendly atmosphere creates a positive environment for interaction among students.
We are proud of the professionalism and friendliness of our teaching and non-teaching staff, who are always available to support both students and parents or guardians. In addition to the quality of teaching, this has always been one of the characteristics that identifies ALM and has made it a respected institution.
ALM is proud of the prestige it has achieved, the level of results obtained by its students and the quality of the teaching provided. Despite this quality, we seek to keep our fees moderate so they remain accessible to a greater number of people.
Message from the Board
“The ability to communicate in several languages is a significant advantage for individuals, organisations and companies. It fosters creativity, helps break down cultural stereotypes and promotes a way of thinking that does not fit conventional parameters, while also helping to develop innovative products and services.”
– Leonard Orban, European Commissioner for Multilingualism from 2007 to 2010
Learning a language has become a basic necessity, not only for professionals in different fields and for those preparing to enter an increasingly competitive labour market, but also for citizens in general. Mastering languages means growth, development and, above all, better conditions to keep up with the rapid changes taking place today, including mobility. Knowing other languages also promotes intercultural contact, mutual understanding and direct communication between citizens in an increasingly broad and diverse world.
Aware of the importance of languages in social and professional contexts, the Academia de Línguas da Madeira seeks to offer language courses in different formats and with different methodologies, meeting the needs and convenience of those interested.
When preparing our programmes, we considered the needs of the language market and, as such, provide those who come to us with the opportunity to obtain internationally recognised certifications.
Teaching Methodology
Practical lessons, level assessment, clear goals and continuous support for every learning path.
Teaching Staff
Teachers are one of the most important factors in ensuring student success. For this reason, we are committed to providing a service with qualified and experienced professionals.
We are rigorous in our recruitment process and support our teachers with training and development programmes. This ensures that students learn with specialists who make lessons motivating, enjoyable and successful.
All our teachers are native speakers or have a high level of proficiency in the language they teach, and hold recognised teaching qualifications.
Partners and Certifications
Local partnerships and a commitment to teaching quality, organisation and continuous development.
Università per Stranieri di Perugia
Universidade de Lisboa
Trinity College London
Goethe-Institut
Chambre de Commerce et d'Industrie de Paris
British Council