United Kingdom: Ofsted to investigate alternative education project near Bath

The education watchdog has told ITV News it will investigate an alternative learning project near Bath.

At The Green House Education Project there are no uniforms, text books or long days of learning. Children do fewer than 18 hours a week and its founders say it is not a school.

24 children aged between five and 14 are currently being taught at the fee-paying project which says it gives children a well-rounded start to their lives.

OFSTED however, is now examining whether it may breach official guidelines. Katie Rowlett has been to visit the Green House Education Project.

It was developed three years ago by two teachers who were disillusioned with the traditional school system.

There are mentors for the children for guidance and the project prizes itself on having nature as the children’s first classroom; the mentors say this creates curiosity and inspires learning.

One parent says she has seen a difference in her child’s behaviour since attending to the Green House Education Project.

The teaching methods here are not in line with the traditional education model and ITV News understands Ofsted is now investigating the project. Though its Directors say they welcome conversations with the education watchdog.

While it might be non-traditional, it appears popular. There is a waiting list to get one of the 24 places at the project and parents have been prepared to moved cities to access the education they think their child needs.

Source:

http://www.itv.com/news/westcountry/2017-07-03/ofsted-to-investigate-alternative-education-project-near-bath/