Reimagining Education by Popoola, Maddi; Sivers, Sarah; McDonagh, Louise;

Short description:

Drawing from relational and trauma-informed approaches, Reimagining Education explores ways to design and sustain a successful school system, through the eyes and experiences of children and young people.

Long description:

Drawing from relational and trauma-informed approaches, Reimagining Education explores ways to design and sustain a successful school system, through the eyes and experiences of children and young people.

Chapters consider a range of themes, from mentally healthy schools to attendance and academic pressure, to build the vision of a compassionate school where no child is left behind or excluded. Each topic is introduced through the voices and views of children, who reflect on their experiences and tell us what would make it better and create a sense of belonging for all. These themes are explored alongside key psychological theory, before accessible strategies and recommendations for change are introduced.

Centring the views of children and young people, this essential guide focuses on developing an education system fit for the workforce of the future, based on skills, humanity, compassion and citizenship. It will be valuable reading for all teachers, pastoral staff, educational leaders and educational psychologists.

"Reimagining Education is a landmark contribution to the education debate. Drawing on the painstaking analysis of contributions from thousands of children and young people, the authors place their voices – so often overlooked – front and centre. Despite the range and richness of these testimonies, a strikingly consistent message emerges: huge numbers of children and young people are suffering because of the way in which the education system is currently configured. In this context, maintaining the status quo is not just unsustainable – it is indefensible. What makes this book so powerful is that it doesn’t stop at critique. Drawing on the principles of self-determination theory – autonomy, competence and relatedness – it offers a compelling vision of what a more humane, inclusive, psychologically-informed education system would look like. If you want to know what young people really think about school – and what they need instead – look no further."

James Mannion, Director of Rethinking Education.

"This gem of a book is an extraordinary triumph: proof that not only is it possible to capture and raise up the voices of children and young people, but also imperative; necessary. Here we find children’s direct words and experiences woven seamlessly into psychological theory, tracking into implications for practice which will undoubtedly stir and inspire the thoughts and hearts of its readers. To echo a metaphor threaded through this seminal work, the sea change called for here is on the horizon. Will the education system, and every cog and person within it, answer the call?"

Dr Nicole Schnackenberg, Child, Community and Educational Psychologist.

"A powerful and thought-provoking read that invites us all to truly ‘Think Differently’. This book brilliantly captures the heart of relational practice, offering both inspiration and theory-based guidance. Through insightful reflections and actionable models, it lays out a compelling vision for creating psychologically and physically safe schools where every individual feels a genuine sense of belonging. A must-read for anyone committed to transforming education through connection and care."

Phil Willott, Director of Education, Raleigh Education Trust.

"Reimagining Education offers a rare invitation to see school life through the eyes of children, focusing on the rules and relationships that shape their daily experiences. Too often, education is viewed only through the lens of adults who choose to be there, while the voices of students are overlooked. This book redresses that balance, thoughtfully considering the impact of schooling on well-being from both perspectives. A must-read for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of the systems that shape children's lives."

Sarah Johnson, Author, Director of Phoenix Education Consultancy and PRUsAP President

Table of Contents:

1. Staff Well-Being and Mental Health: Putting On Your Oxygen Masks First  2. Fear And Rules: The Views of Children on the State of the Current System  3. Relationships, Relationships, Relationships  4. What Will it Take to Create a Genuine Meaning of The Term ‘Mentally Healthy Schools’?  5. Academic Pressure Through the Eyes of Children: What Do They Really Want To Learn?  6. We’re in an Attendance Crisis, But What Do Children Out of School Say About Their Experiences In Mainstream Education? Why Would a Child Not Want To Attend School?  7. Attendance, The LA and The Wider System  8. The Covid Legacy: What Has Been Lost, Missed and Gained?  9. What Can We Do Better?...From The Views of Children and School Staff