I've been thinking about changing ds's school since he's been having a few problems at his old school (you may or may not have seen my previous 304050 threads about it...). DS has been having problems concentrating in the class and gets into trouble for getting restless and bored. Its all been a bit stressful.
Anyway the school we went to see today is just round the corner, and looked really lovely. The deputy head took us round, and was LOVELY - really really passionate about kids being up and about while learning and doing lots of learning outside. They encourage lots of learning by doing, and gradually increase the ammount of time sitting down and learning as they kids move up the school. There were classes doing work in the playground, and lots of little groups working in various little areas around the school.
They had a nature garden with pond, and a school allotment where each class has a raised bed, and the whole school has a scarecrow competition each year to choose the best scarecrow to go in the allotment! Apparently they follow an international curriculum where they learn topics and then relate it to the rest of the world. So for example, with their keeping fit topic, they have looked at exercise and keeping healthy in other countries too. Plus they start each new topic with a really exciting activity or visit to get the kids engaged in the subject.
It felt so different and less oppressive to his current school, I think I am definitely going apply and hope ds gets in. I think even if he continues to have problems at the new school, they will be dealt with in a more positive way at this school.
Just wanted to share some positive news really! 