Alternative education: listening to the voices of young people

Research presented at the Education Conference highlighted the use of photovoice by young people in alternative education environments, in Scotland and England. Photovoice, a participatory method commonly employed with marginalised groups, fosters trust between researchers and participants and empowers young voices. Currently, over 2 million children are outside formal schooling in the UK, with home education on the rise. This study aimed to capture the educational values and concerns of home-educated youth through their selected images, revealing their experiences and priorities.

The findings were revealing: some families find themselves with limited educational choices, often differing from traditional schooling methods. One home-educated 14-year-old participant appreciated the time with extended family, which wouldn't be possible in a conventional school setting. The study found that children and teenagers place high value on having a say in their educational paths, supported by adults who emphasise the importance of learning choice and space.

“You can do things with adults around you that you don’t really get to do – you can spend more time with them.  Like with granny and grandad, I can spend a lot more, longer chunks of time than I would be able to in school.” (14-year-old participant)

Photovoice discussion also covered the educational content, with one 16-year-old having completed all the Psychology courses available on OpenLearn. This platform has enabled her to pursue Further Education (FE College) and Higher Education through The Open University due to its uniquely inclusive ethos that supports learning regardless of age, income, or background. Most courses do not require young people to hold prior qualifications. The Open University is open to all.

A significant insight from this research was the value young people place on family bonds, especially with siblings, in home education environments. Home education allows them to spend substantial time with family members, aiding each other's learning journeys, a dynamic less feasible in traditional schooling. Following the study, a family reported that their 17-year-old was pursuing a credited module with The Open University, while a younger sibling engaged with STEM science materials on OpenLearn, illustrating the practical applications of this flexible learning structure.

“You can’t really form a sibling relationship when you’re in school as much as you can when you’re in home education.  Because in home ed, you’re with them, you spend time with them.” (14-year-old participant)

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