This book is about a unique school. It is a school that, despite the increasing pressure put upon it by changes in the curriculum and the organisation of education, has managed to successfully maintain the creative values that have won it international and government recognition. The book describes: the school's s culture of holism; its use and appreciation of its grounds and environment for learning; its innovative approaches to curriculum organisation; its appropriation of national initiatives such as literacy and numeracy hours; and its creative teaching and learning through the eyes of observers, teachers, children and parents. The success of Coombes School shows that it is possible to combine externally imposed prescription with a set of personal beliefs and values