Rows of empty desks in a classroom Copyrighted imageCredit: Alberto Tentoni | Dreamstime.com You never really lose the taste of a new school year starting, do you? No matter how long since you actually had to swap the long, carefree days of summer for uniform, new pens and the embrace of the classroom, that first sense of the leaves turning triggers the memories of the start of the school year. For some of us, the memories are warm; others went unwillingly to school. But what is in store for the current generation of school children as they head back to class?

Schools fit for learning

How can the way a school is designed influence the students inside?

What makes a great school? Oxley Park Featuring: Video

Success in attracting pupils to Oxley Park has meant design challenges to fit enough classrooms - but pupils are still enthusiastic about their ...  Watch now: What makes a great school? Oxley Park

What makes a great school? Water Hall Featuring: Video Copyrighted imageCredit: The Open University

The rebuilt Water Hall School in Milton Keynes has found favour with the people who have to use it every day - the pupils. They shared...  Watch now: What makes a great school? Water Hall

It's not just pupils who are heading back...

Have you ever thought about becoming a teacher?

We don't all learn in the same way

How do you best pick up new skills and knowledge?

What's your learning style? Featuring: Activity Copyrighted imageCredit: photos.com

Everyone has a distinct learning style, and by finding your individual learning style you may be able to tailor your future learning to suit you  Launch now: What's your learning style?

Learning around the world

My Chinese schooldays Copyrighted imageCredit: Wang Jin

Wang Jin, who currently teaches Chinese in London, grew up in Anhui Province. Here, she describes first-hand daily life in one of our schools:  Read more : My Chinese schooldays

Education in Syria Copyrighted imageCredit: Lion TV

Syria is proud of its approach to education. To what extent is that pride valid - and is there room for improvement?  Read more : Education in Syria

School in India: an opportunity to be grasped Copyrighted imageCredit: The Open University

Billy Khokar compares differing attitudes to school in South Asian and British cultures.  Read more : School in India: an opportunity to be grasped

OU on the BBC: African School - About The Series Copyrighted imageCredit: Production team

Introducing a documentary programme about a school in Africa.  Read more : OU on the BBC: African School - About The Series