This book is designed to give parents and teachers information on the alternative education options available in the UK.

This volume is designed to give parents and teachers information on the alternative education options available in the UK. It covers three main areas: outside the state system - small schools, Steiner Waldorf schools, Montessori schools, democratic schools and other schools with alternative philosophies; doing it yourself - setting up a small school or learning centre, educating at home, flexible schooling; and alternatives within the state system - how some state schools are finding different ways of working. The values, philosophies and methods of each alternative are described, and first-hand experiences and accounts of children, teachers and parents are presented. Answers to common questions and useful sources of further information are provided. This accessible book aims to help parents decide how best to educate their children. It should be of interest also to teachers looking to build their knowledge of different education philosophies.

1. Education: What for? Section 1: Alternative Approaches to Education 2. Small Schools 3. Steiner Waldorf Education 4. Montessori Education 5. Democratic Schools 6. Other Philosophies, Other Schools Section 2: Doing it Yourself 7. Setting up a Small School or Learning Centre 8. Educating at Home 9. Flexible Schooling Section 3: Alternative Approaches in the State System 10. State Schools: Alternative Ways of Working 11. Small is Beautiful: Lessons from America 12. Parents as Change Agents