Everyone has an opinion about education. But, for years it seems, as a nation, we've been arguing about standards, structures, performance tables - the debate is about instruments, (how we can 'reform' schools) and it's about increments (how much we can change). Guy Claxton has dared to question the whole purpose of compulsory schooling, and in a way which is not only authoritative (he undoubtedly knows his stuff) but also humane (not surprising for anyone who has heard him speak, or shares his philosophical and spiritual interests). We need this fundamental debate now, as more kids find their learning outside school, and this is a brilliant summation of the issues which - because of its accessibility -could finally bring into the discussion the people who've been largely excluded: parents.
If you care about how we make schools the kind of places our kids actually want to be in, buy this book!