Do our schools really meet the needs of children and young people today? In 2001, The Guardian launched a competition called 'The School I'd Like', in which young people were asked to imagine their ideal school. This vibrant, groundbreaking book presents material drawn from that competition, offering a unique snapshot of perceptions of today's schools by those who matter most - the pupils. The book is wonderfully illuminated by children's essays, stories, poems, pictures and plans. Placing their views in the centre of the debate, it provides an evaluation of the democratic processes involved in teaching and learning by: Identifying consistencies in children's expressions of how they wish to learn Illustrating how the built environment is experienced by today's children Posing questions about the reconstruction of teaching and learning for the 21st century. This book offers a powerful new perspective on school reform and will be essential reading for all those involved in education and childhood studies, including teachers, advisors, policy makers and academics, and anyone who believes that children's voices should not be ignored.

Author Biography

Catherine Burke is Lecturer in Education at the University of Leeds. Ian Grosvenor is Director of Learning and Teaching at the School of Education, University of Birmingham.