When it comes to the UK’s schooling system, one of the most interesting aspects of it is the number of weird and wonderful secondary schools that have been popping up all over the country in recent years. From schools that offer students the chance to learn a language completely outside of the curriculum to those that focus almost entirely on music and art, there is a huge range of choice when it comes to secondary schools in the UK.
But how do these unusual and often offbeat schools get away with offering such diverse and unique educational opportunities to their pupils? In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the most interesting secondary schools in the UK, and explore what makes them so unique and how they manage to remain within the bounds of the formal education system.
Unconventional curriculums
One of the most interesting things about some of the UK’s weirdest secondary schools is the fact that they often offer courses and curriculums that are quite different from what can typically be found in a traditional school.
For example, the Gorsewood Academy in London is a school that focuses on developing the practical skills of its students, with projects ranging from woodworking and carpentry to growing vegetables in their own garden. Similarly, the London Academy for Music and Dramatic Arts (LAMDA) allows students to undertake theatrical training on top of their normal lessons, and offers drama, dance and music classes as part of its curriculum.
Innovative teaching methods
Many of the UK’s weirdest secondary schools make use of innovative teaching methods that challenge the traditional methods seen in other educational institutions. For example, one school in Oxfordshire has been praised for its use of technology in the classroom, with digital whiteboards, interactive software and robotics all part of their teaching approach.
Furthermore, some schools have embraced the idea of ‘experiential learning’, whereby students have the opportunity to learn through real-life experiences such as organising events and taking part in community projects. This is a great way for young people to gain a greater understanding of the world around them, as well as to develop some vital life skills.
Flexible admissions policies
One of the major advantages of attending a school that is considered to be ‘weird’ is the fact that their admissions policies are often much more flexible than those of mainstream schools. For example, the London Academy for Music and Dramatic Arts (LAMDA) offers places to students who demonstrate a passion for the arts regardless of their academic background.
Similarly, the Gorsewood Academy in London has an admissions policy that doesn’t focus solely on grades, but looks at the individual talents and passions of the students, with an emphasis on practical skills such as carpentry, gardening and metalwork. This approach allows them to create a diverse and unique learning environment where all students can thrive.
Conclusion
As can be seen, there are a number of ways in which the UK’s weirdest secondary schools get away with offering such diverse and unique educational opportunities to their students. From offering unconventional curriculums and making use of innovative teaching methods to having more flexible admissions policies, these schools have managed to carve out a place for themselves in the mainstream education system. So, if you’re looking for an educational experience that is anything but ordinary, you may want to consider checking out one of the UK’s weirdest secondary schools.
