Flexischooling in Bristol: A Vision Worth Reading About

Alongside my work in the Hub I also have the privilege of working as a consultant for Finding the Flex. Last month I joined Emma Quartey at the Centre for Innovation at the University of Bristol. We worked with a group of 2nd year students who were challenged to design a 'flexi-hub' - a place where children on flexi arrangements can access educational opportunities without their parents having to deliver it all themselves. What emerged surprised everyone: genuinely systems-level thinking, digital prototypes, and a recognition from the students that flexible education isn't a soft option, but a way of keeping more young people meaningfully connected to mainstream schooling. Emma asks a great question 'what might flexi-schooling actually look like in a city like Bristol?' she reflects on what universities could offer a flexi-schooling ecosystem, and what it takes to turn ambitious thinking into something schools, councils and families can actually use. As our Learning Hub continues to develop and grow, we have a long term vision of linking in with a flexi-schooling programme, opening up some of our workshops to young people who would benefit from part time school. Working alongside the students was inspiring and demonstrated that with the right mindset, reimagining the system is possible. Take five minutes to read Emma's blog - it is a good one.