SML College Newsletter - May 24
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’Children are being failed’: why more English parents are home educating - Letter to The Guardian
Letter to The Guardian
Your report (’Children are being failed’: why more English parents are home educating, 13 March) is clearly correct that schooling is failing an increasing number of children and their parents. However pure home schooling is not the only alternative. The law says that children must be educated and that there are two equally valid options – school or ‘otherwise’. Part of ‘otherwise’ are small part time learning communities that are growing rapidly to provide the social and other support that your report identifies as could be missing in a mainly home-based approach.
Our learning community, for 9-17 year old ‘otherwise’ children in the Brighton area, is nothing like a school. It has no imposed curriculum (children create their own with adult support); no imposed timetable (children create their own); no classrooms (children can work collaboratively or on their own – they choose) and no uniform. We have been going now for over 22 years with no state support.
Independent research on past students has shown that they go on to happy and fulfilled lives as they learn how to manage their own learning to suit their needs.
Dr Ian Cunningham, 13th March 2024
SML College Newsletter - Feb 2024
Join us at the next Open Meeting
We have a parents evening on Monday 19th February, which we will be using Microsoft Teams. We have a session, as part of it, on Demand Avoidance. This will be led by Eliza Fricker - an author & illustrator, and an advocate & consultant for PDA, autism and learning, and we thought that this part in particular might be of interest to some of you. You are of course very welcome to join the whole session should you wish to.
The evening will run from 18:00 to 19:30, and the first part is to cover off some changes and updates on what has been happening and our plans moving forward. We will cover the following (timings are approximate):
• 18:00 to 18: 15 Introduction to Carmel (College Director) and Gavin (Chair of Governors)
• 18:15 to 18:30 Update on the College (what has been happening and what we are planning)
• 18:30 to 18:45 Overview/Reminder of College Principles
• 18:45 to 19:00 Q&A Answers
• 19:00 to 19:30 Session on Demand Avoidance (led by Eliza Fricker - an author & illustrator, and an advocate & consultant for PDA, autism and learning).
To register, please email office@smlcollege.org.uk.
Michael is running the Brighton Half Marathon for the Hardship Fund - please support!
Michael writes: ‘I'm running the Brighton Half Marathon raising funds for my son's college. The SML College is a place where young people can learn in a way that they want to. My son is in his second year and is finding it a great place to learn in a way that suits him.
‘SML College operates as a charity, so I'm running the half marathon to help raise funds. All money raised will go towards the College’s Hardship Fund, giving all young people access to learning.
’It'll be my sixth half marathon and I'm hoping to get across the finish line in under 100 minutes.’
Good luck Michael!
Please support him here: https://localgiving.org/fundraising/HalfMarathonRunforSMLC/
Visit from Team from Liverpool
Four parents from Liverpool came for the day on February 2nd to learn more about us. They want to set up a centre based on our approach. The visit was part of our ongoing work to spread the use of Self Managed Learning nationally.
Volunteering
We very much value having volunteers to assist in the College. Currently we have an ex-student who helps in the computer room – and his support is very much valued by students. If you think that you might have something to offer in volunteering please contact Carmel Kent – carmel@smlcollege.org.uk.
Schools & Mental Health
There is clear evidence that schools play a major role in inducing mental health problems in children. We now have a wealth of evidence from the USA that is undoubtedly equally relevant to Britain.
A study in a child mental health facility in Connecticut revealed that the average monthly number of emergency mental health intakes for school-age children, declined from 185 in May (the last full month of school) to 102 in June, (the month in which school is finishing), and then dropped to 74 and 66 respectively in July and August (the two full months of freedom from school). This is very clear evidence that school quite clearly has a negative impact on the mental health of many young people.
Another study found the rate of hospitalisation of school-age children for suicidal ideation and suicide attempts had increased dramatically, and that each year the rate of such hospitalisations was significantly higher in school months than in the summer.
Research on the rate of psychiatric visits to a large paediatric emergency mental health department in Los Angeles found that the rate of such visits in weeks when school was in session was 118% greater than in weeks when school was not in session.
The parents of many of the children who attend our small learning community are clear that school impacted negatively on the mental health of their children – which is why they pulled them out of school.
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Finally, a big thank you to everyone who supported our call out for funds to support the science equipment for our GCSE students. Your support is much appreciated.
Could Self managed Learning Be What Your Child Needs?
In her blog post, Hayley from Sparkles and Stretchmarks delves into the world of education, focusing on self-managed learning. Titled "Could Self Managed Learning Be What Your Child Needs?", her article explores her shift in perspective after homeschooling her three children for over six years.
Hayley's view on education has evolved significantly. She used to prioritise academic success measured by tests and scores. However, her journey led her to believe that education should cater to each child's unique needs and aspirations, rather than conforming to standardised methods.
She emphasises the importance of allowing children the freedom to explore their interests, advocating for an educational approach that supports individuality. Hayley acknowledges the challenges parents face in balancing their children's needs with personal commitments, highlighting the search for an educational environment that combines the benefits of homeschooling with a supportive structure.
Her insights resonate with parents seeking alternatives in education, aligning well with the ethos of SML College. Hayley's exploration mirrors the college's commitment to empowering students to steer their educational journey, fostering their passions and aspirations.
Her reflective piece offers a down-to-earth perspective, inviting readers to contemplate the essence of education—a narrative that echoes the principles upheld by SML College.
Big Art Raffle!
Join our pre-Christmas Big Art Raffle! 🖼️ Support our Hardship Fund and win incredible artworks—from student creations to original Banksy prints! Every pound raised helps families access SML College no matter their financial circumstances.
Get your tickets in December and spread the word!
Art Raffle Prizes
SML College Newsletter December 2023
Debunking Educational Myths: Empowering Parents for Informed Choices, article in Primary Times magazine
How about a fun twist on the 'Would I Lie to You' TV programme to uncover some common myths about education.
Myth 1: "School is the preferred option for children's education, and parents can only home educate with permission.”
Truth: The law says that both school and 'otherwise' education options are equally valid: school is not mentioned in law as preferable. Parents have the complete right to choose.
Myth 2: "School uniforms improve academic results and make schools better places.”
Truth: Research doesn't necessarily support this claim. It's time to think about what truly enhances learning environments.
Myth 3: "STEM subjects contribute more to the UK than digital/creative learning.”
Truth: The opposite is the truth.
SML College aims to equip parents with the knowledge to counter misinformation. Together, you can pave the way for a more balanced and student-led approach to education that prioritises the wellbeing of young people. SML College provides an alternative to mainstream schooling whereby students take responsibility for their learning in an environment that is supportive, safe and provides freedom to explore the areas that inspire them. There are morning or afternoon programmes for 9-17 year olds with no imposed teaching, no uniforms, no formal lessons and no imposed timetable. Find out more at www.smlcollege.org.uk
Dr Ian Cunningham, Advocate for Innovative Education, Returns from Nepal – press release
Dr Ian Cunningham, Chair of Governors at Self Managed Learning (SML) College in Fishersgate, has returned from an important international education conference in Nepal where he served as the keynote speaker. During this event, he had the opportunity to present his ideas to the Nepali Minister of Education.
Dr Cunningham's presentation focused on the practical approach of putting learners at the forefront of 21st-century education. The inspiration for this approach came from his decades long research on Self Managed Learning which led to him establishing SML College, known for its unique learner-centred model, which challenges traditional educational norms.
SML College stands out by offering a non-traditional learning environment with no prescribed curriculum, no traditional classrooms and no fixed timetables. Students between the ages of 9 and 16 have the freedom to explore subjects in a way that suits their individual needs.
Dr Ian Cunningham's return from Nepal signifies an important step toward a global conversation around reimagining education with a focus on the student. His efforts are set to inspire a broader conversation on how to make education more responsive to individual learning styles and bring SML College to the global stage. This conference marks a significant milestone in promoting a learner-centric approach to education worldwide.
National Gallery collaboration
Ian was contacted over the summer to work with the National Gallery’s education department to help them to improve educational provision. Two of their staff visited in October and then emailed after the visit as follows:
Dear Ian
Many thanks for last week’s visit. You were so generous with your time and we really appreciated you sharing your approach. You gave us much to think about and we have already started to reflect on what is might mean for our new space and programmes.
With best wishes
Caroline
Caroline Smith, Children and Young People’s Leadership Manager, National Gallery
Camping Trip
Earlier this term Lars organised an overnight camp-out on Truleigh Hill. The trip included a hike to Devils Dyke, camp fires and climbing trees. The students loved the trip and asked the next day if they could do it again in the winter! Perhaps a little chilly!
Coming soon, the SMLC Big Art Raffle in aid of the Hardship Fund
Our pre-Christmas raffle to raise vital funds for the Hardship Fund is going to be a very special Big Art Raffle. To showcase the talents of the students, items of student and staff art will be mixed with donated contemporary prints including an original Art of Banksy print and a Postman print. In addition work from local artists has been generously donated by the IO Gallery in Sydney Street, Brighton to create an exciting raffle to raise funds so that all families who need to can access the vital work of the College. Keep an eye out in December for tickets. We are very grateful for all the kind and generous contributions made. Best of all every pound raised goes to the Hardship Fund.
We are still taking contributions of artwork and you have until 1 December to enter - please email a photo of the art to paul@smlcollege.org.uk and you’ll help us raise even more funds.
This is a taste of what is come from our very talented artists…
And finally…
Great feedback from a parent on how well their child is doing at the College.
"I just wanted to say briefly how astonishing the change since she's started at SMLC!
I've not seen her this happy since infants. We used to struggle so much to go to school every day. It had become such a grim spectre for us both.
The difference is extraordinary & far better than I'd dare hope!
I've been very happy to see the flexibility in learning & the way the school encourages the young people to make the most of the resources that show up - the beach trip & banana bread making etc.
I love these values & think this is one of life's most useful lessons.
I just wanted to share how remarkable & validating this is to watch in my child.
My kids were essentially written off because we tick too many societal constructs - I'm so relieved she's somewhere that doesn't judge or value like this. Mainstream school damaged my children.
Thank you so so much for your invaluable work & standing up for the young people in this way." - Parent quote
Debunking Educational Myths: Empowering Parents for Informed Choices
How about a fun twist on the 'Would I Lie to You' TV programme to uncover some common myths about education. Let's debunk them!
Myth 1: "School is the preferred option for children's education, and parents can only home educate with permission."
Truth: The law says that both school and 'otherwise' education options are equally valid: school is not mentioned in law as preferable. Parents have the complete right to choose.
Myth 2: "School uniforms improve academic results and make schools better places."
Truth: Research evidence doesn't support this claim. It's time to think about what truly enhances learning environments.
Myth 3: "STEM subjects contribute more to the UK than digital/creative learning."
Truth: The opposite is the truth.
SML College aims to equip parents with the knowledge to counter misinformation. Together, you can pave the way for a more balanced and student-led approach to education that prioritises the wellbeing of young people.
SML College provides an alternative to mainstream schooling whereby students take responsibility for their learning in an environment that is supportive, safe and provides freedom to explore the areas that inspire them. They have morning or afternoon programmes for 9-17 year olds with no imposed teaching, no uniforms, no formal lessons and no imposed timetable.
Find out more about self managed learning
Dr Ian Cunningham, Advocate for Innovative Education, Returns from Nepal
Dr Ian Cunningham, Chair of Governors at Self Managed Learning (SML) College in Fishersgate, has returned from an important international education conference in Nepal where he served as the keynote speaker. During this event, he had the opportunity to present his ideas to the Nepali Minister of Education.
Dr Cunningham's presentation focused on the practical approach of putting learners at the forefront of 21st-century education. The inspiration for this approach came from his decades long research on Self Managed Learning which led to him establishing SML College, known for its unique learner-centred model, which challenges traditional educational norms.
SML College stands out by offering a non-traditional learning environment with no prescribed curriculum, no traditional classrooms and no fixed timetables. Students between the ages of 9 and 16 have the freedom to explore subjects in a way that suits their individual needs.
Dr Ian Cunningham's return from Nepal signifies an important step toward a global conversation around reimagining education with a focus on the student. His efforts are set to inspire a broader conversation on how to make education more responsive to individual learning styles and bring SML College to the global stage. This conference marks a significant milestone in promoting a learner-centric approach to education worldwide.
About Self Managed Learning (SML) College:
Self Managed Learning (SML) College, located in Fishersgate, UK, is a pioneer in innovative education. With its learner-centred approach, SML College has gained international recognition for its unique educational model, providing students aged 9-16 with the flexibility to learn in a way that best suits their needs, without the constraints of a fixed curriculum, traditional classrooms or rigid schedules.
SML College Newsletter October 2023
Update by Dr Ian Cunningham
Appointments
Luke Scott Martin was appointed as the full time Premises Supervisor at the end of July and has already been working hard over the summer on premises improvements and repairs.
Jessie Beagley started as Learning Support Officer at the end of August to provide much needed full time support for students.
The College premises
Over the summer there have been significant developments in the College premises. The Design/Technology Workshop was completed in the area off the sports hall. We are now busy garnering tools and equipment – contact Lars Schuy at lars@smlcollege.org.uk if you want a copy of our list of needs.
The Recording Studio was completed and is already being used. Having the drum kit in there has meant much less noise disturbance in adjoining rooms. And it gives us two music spaces instead of one.
Luke created a sensory room near the front of the building for students needing a small comfortable and attractive space for a time out.
Rethinking Education Conference
Saturday 23rd of September saw the second of the Rethinking Education Conferences. Attracting over 500 participants it brought together parents, teachers and those of us providing education outside school. I ran a session about subverting school for parents and young people. As I explained this was not about trivialised rebellion against schooling but rather the need for parents to help their offspring to get a good start in life when often the messages from school were not helpful to young people.
I used a take on the TV programme ‘Would I Lie to You’ by presenting statements and then suggesting which were true and which were lies. As a starter I offered the statement that ’School is the preferred option for the education of children but some parents are allowed to home educate.’ The answer is that it’s a lie. In law there are two equally valued options for parents when choosing education – school or ‘otherwise’. The law does not say school is preferable – and as part of ‘otherwise’ we can show that it can be a better option.
Another statement was: ‘School uniforms improve academic results and make schools better places’ – which is, of course, a lie. Research evidence does not support this.
Less obvious was: ‘The application of STEM subject learning at work contributes more to the UK economy than digital/creative learning.’ This is also a lie. The digital/creative industries contribution to the UK economy is, from the Government’s own figures, significantly greater. Parents and young people can be misled that the focus on academic subjects to the neglect of creative areas is the best career option.
The last option was: ‘Schools help to improve mental health’. This is not only a lie but the opposite of truth. Research shows that school attendance increases mental illness.
My aim in running the session was to help parents counter the misinformation that young people are often given by schools but also in the media.
Anyone wanting more information about my session can contact me – ian@smlcolleg.org.uk.
Student Art Showcase
We are really pleased to share some of the recent artwork created by the students. We’ll share more in the next newsletter too, but are sure that’ll you’ll agree that the students are very talented!
Qualifications
Nearly all our students took and passed GCSEs. However we know that often this is a necessary nuisance so that the individual could get onto a course that they wanted to take. In many cases we need to congratulate the students for their fortitude as well as their knowledge in coping with time-tested exams.
In a different league are the Arts Awards that four students gained at the Silver Level. This is the equivalent to a GCSE pass ie it is a level 2 qualification on the same level as GCSEs. What is great about this is that it is very self managing with students choosing their own topics and projects and allowing our staff to assess the learning via a portfolio of real work (not an exam).
SML College Hardship Fund
This month we’d like to thank the Snell Charitable Educational Fund for their recent donation to the Hardship Fund. The Hardship Fund is our main way of ensuring that SMLC is accessible to all. Please keep supporting the Fund, your support is essential - details are below of how you can help.
| Support us here |
And finally, did you catch Dr Ian Cunningham’s letter in The Guardian, discussing school absences? Here is a quick look…
In the news: Homeschooling at Risk - The Telegraph - 7th Sept 2022
The future of homeschooling and of SML College in its current format is at risk due to the potential roll out of the new Schools Bill. While we await further guidance from the new government, we are preparing documentation to support our case and the highlight many issues with the Schools Bill. See below our feature in The Telegraph.
Homeschooling at Risk: The Telegraph