Formal Lessons

Although formal classes are not our preferred strategy to engage the children's attention and expand their capabilities, we aim to be responsive to children's preferences, and will offer lessons in curriculum subjects whenever children spontaneously wish to concentrate on specific skills and practise them under adult supervision. A formal class may also be offered to an individual child or a group of children if we feel this may contribute to improving particular skills.

Formal classes can also be useful as a “transition measure” for those children who are not accustomed to making choices for themselves, or who have developed an attitude of rejection towards academic learning. The facilitator's role in this case is vital to improve the children's self-confidence, and help them establish a genuine and trusting relationship with an adult who will not judge them, compare them with other children, or impose on them inappropriate expectations.