The Three ‘R’s. - A New Perspective On Education

It is useful to view the phases of childhood is cultures. When the culture of childhood is recognised, respected and reflected in schooling, children are affirmed, i.e. they experience themselves as acceptable, now. Observation recognises three major phases that comprise the cultures of childhood.

First comes a time which is essentially bodily activity, where the infant develops physical dexterity. (Approximately birth to six years)

Then - a period of subjective and imaginative interaction, where the child develops emotional depth. (Approximately six to thirteen)

Thirdly, a stage of critical thinking where the young person develops conceptual agility. (Approximately fourteen to twenty-one)

These developmental stages are not mutually exclusive or sharp-edged. Never-the-less, the processes of education could respect them, and reflect them back to the students in the learning strategies employed.

The Kindergarten (4 to 5+) would reflect and emphasize a physical style.

A major portion of the learning would take place by –

· copying the activities of adults,

· engaging in the movement games of early childhood,

· playing in a movement stimulating environment.

The Primary School (6 to 13+) would reflect and emphasize a subjective style.

A major portion of the learning would take place by –

· developing artistic talents, especially music, drama, painting, and drawing,

· working with traditional stories, and by

· the example of committed, vocationally minded teachers.

The Upper School (7 to 18+) would reflect a critical style.

A major portion of the learning would take place by -

· debating the merits of arguments,

· opposing some defined positions, and by

· clarifying personal beliefs and opinions.

Students educated in this way would be like swimmers entering water at their own body temperature. Thus our subject matter and teaching methods would be shaped by the observable physical/psychological needs of the pupils and not by outer dictates - for example economics, or mere linear logic. By building an entire education around this foundation, we aim to fulfill our basic purpose - that of producing well-rounded personalities, assured of their self worth.