Why Are England’s Kids Refusing to Go to School?
School attendance in England has significantly declined for various reasons, but there is a crucial oversight that needs addressing. During school closures, children have experienced freedom and autonomy. So, it’s understandable why they may not want to return to a system that feels like a police state, controlled by privatized mini-corporations dictating everything from clothing to thoughts and self-expression.
The staggering number of teachers, around 40,000, who left the profession last year for reasons other than retirement indicates that many adults find the current conditions unbearable. The stress, the dull and test-focused curriculum, and the lack of relevance to the demands of the present contribute to this sentiment.
It may not be a conscious act of rebellion among children, but their refusal to attend school is a response to a system that causes anxiety by suppressing individuality. Even the children’s commissioner, who previously advocated for a strict approach, has realized the importance of incorporating fun, play, and community into education.
Phil Revels
West Bridgford, Nottinghamshire
Perhaps it’s time to examine the increasing trend in English schools that mimic prison-style discipline. Could this shed light on why more children are refusing to attend school?
Last week, my 11-year-old started a secondary school that prides itself on strictness. During introductory meetings, they emphasized their strict policies as a sign of care and claimed that one-hour detentions for any slight infraction, such as fighting, missing homework, or even wearing the wrong hairband, are meant to help children learn. These methods, however, mirror coercive control tactics.
The school goes to the extreme of insisting on full uniform, including blazers and jumpers, even on scorching hot days. Meanwhile, the teachers dress comfortably for the weather. When questioned, the school points to improved behavior and attention in class as evidence of their approach’s effectiveness. But at what cost?
If I were forced to attend a place where I had to tiptoe around, refrain from speaking in the corridors, wear uncomfortable clothes, and have no control over my toileting, I would quickly stop attending and require substantial mental health support to recover.
Considering this approach is now widespread in secondary schools, it’s no wonder that there’s a mental health crisis among children.
Name and address supplied
Gaby Hinsliff’s article on school refusal is crucial. A 14-year-old named Dilly summed it up perfectly – their ideal school would prioritize personalization, shorter days, no homework, and no tests.
While traditional schools may struggle to meet such demands, small and caring learning communities are emerging across the country. Our self-managed learning community in Sussex caters precisely to what Dilly identified as crucial. For students aged nine to 17, we offer morning or afternoon programs without imposed teaching, uniforms, formal lessons, or fixed timetables. Students have the freedom to create their own learning goals. Research proves that this approach works.
Dr Ian Cunningham
Chair of Governors, Self Managed Learning College
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