Coed Cariad Learning Community
play - freedom - equality
A unique, child-centred education project in the heart of Carmarthenshire, South Wales
play
Play is the work of childhood and we protect our children's right to freely choose the nature, purpose and length of their play.
We know that freely chosen play provides children with good mental and physical health and wellbeing.
We know that playing gives them the best chance of learning what they need to know and practicing the skills they need to have to make a smooth transition to adulthood.
We know that having the freedom, space and time to play nurtures important qualities such as resilience, flexibility and creativity that will stay with them throughout life.
freedom to learn
Self-Directed Learning is characterised by the freedom to pursue your own interests and passions at your own pace. Through the process of prioritising, establishing learning goals, working on real life challenges and reviewing the whole process, children experience an authentic learning experience.
Skills and qualities essential for 21st century life and work; creativity, innovation, leadership, initative, communication, critical thinking and social responsibility, are all practiced on a daily basis in a democratic and self-directed learning environment.
equality
Democractic learning spaces allow children to grow in confidence and practice lifelong skills of cooperation, negotiation, compromise and advocacy.
Empowering children to work together with adults to create and run their own learning community ensures their voice and freedom to participate on their own terms and in their own time.
Coed Cariad is part of a growing movement of child-centred democractic schools and projects across the UK and wider world. To find out more see the following links from these fascinating umbrella organisations:
Alliance for Self Directed Education - www.self-directed.org
Pheonix Education Trust - www.pheonixeducation.co.uk
European Democratic Education Community - www.eudec.org
Reviews & Testimonials
B settled in so quickly this completely exceeded my expectations. His confidence has grown enormously, he now has a lovely group of friends of all ages and his physical skills and core strength are improving constantly.
T (Parent)
We are very happy to see 'our child' flourish at Coed Cariad. An excellent place for outdoor experiences and learning respectful social interaction. All facilitators are very good, we are particularly pleased there is Welsh speaking staff.
C (Parent)
My child has a wonderful, nurturing nature based inclusive imaginative and creative time here, Thank you to everyone involved.
Parent
'We feel very lucky to have Coed Cariad available to us'
'Absolutely wonderful environment, feel so lucky to have it nearby'