I don't know.
We tried pushing her your way.
And what happened.
This place is an experiment.
This school opened in 1921.
Alright then, it's a big experiment...
... with my daughter.
Our daughter.
Our daughter had a bit of a breakdown.
Shhh... She'll hear you.
She knows she was ill.
It seems she knows she failed to get into the school of your dreams.
Oh that's right, blame me.
It's not about blame, it's about doing what's best for Maddy.
One term and we'll review.
Looks like this is rehab.
Try 'childhood'.
You don't get me up boarding school two minutes from my house.
I'm not jumping
I'm paying.
What with? Spanish?
That's why I'm not getting.
You haven't got no money, have you?
Getting.
I'm working on a plan.
It'll all be sorted when I pick you up for the end of term.
End of term?
Aren't you gonna come and see me?
School don't like parents bugging kids during term time.
Honestly. That's what they said.
The kids are long-haired weirdos.
Hello! I'm not gonna fit in here, dad.
Why have I come to this school?
Because I don't know what else to do with you, son.
We need to find the head teacher.
You want Maddy to turn out like her?
I want Maddy to turn out like Maddy.
Doing my best for you, Ryan.
Don't go getting chucked out again.
Third time, eh?
Peter! Peter!
That's your new head teacher, Maddy.
Not him.
Her.
Watch out!
Uh, excuse me. Who exactly is in charge around here?
Erm...
We all are.
I'm Stella.
Maddy's buddy.
You can say your goodbyes now if you want.
I'll look after her.
- No. - Yes.
Mum...
This is for you, darling.
A mobile! Thanks, mum!
Alright. Keep it switched ON. I've put the charger in your case.
Here's some money. Hm?
It's for emergencies only.
Here's a list of things to do.
Hug for mum?
Now work hard, yeah? Keep on top of your lessons.
And if you don't like in here, then you can come home.
Bye!
It'll be fine Mads. Okay?
Don't worry about anything. Just have fun. Okay?
But, dad...
Love you. Hm?
Love you too, dad.
Okay, come here.
This is Matt. We call him 'yoga mat'. [chuckles]
He's your house parent and responsible adult.
The locker is for your valuables.
And Matt can look after your key if you want. He's your house parent.
Giving no parents. And I don't need nobody, thanks, all the same.
Nerd.
Everyone can climb that tree.
Just not the big because basically it's.
There is also regulation that does not allow a rule about not climbing it when it's raining.
What you mean is prohibited?
The school rules.
We we make them.
And sometimes we break them.
Kids make all the rules?
We meet here twice a week.
to discuss stuff,
propose new rules.
Everybody votes...
... and if enough people agree, the rule is made law.
So what? We had a school council at my last school.
yaps away but still the teachers their way
It's not like that here.
The teachers are just part of the community. Same as us.
It's 'one person, one vote'.
Hey, hey!
No skateboards allowed indoors. It wrecks-up floors for everyone else.
Sorry.
A kid made up that rule?
Yeah, Carmen. She got splinters.
Okay then...
I'm gonna say I don't have to go to lessons.
Someone already did.
The man who started Summerhill.
He thought that kids should only go to lessons if they wanted to.
So, I don't have to go to lessons?
You don't have to do anything you don't want to.
That's the whole point of Summerhill.
And there's the drama studio.
Hi! I am Heather.
Come up, we're playing Pirates. I'm being Tiger Lily!
Climbing trees is dangerous.
Who says?
Hi mum!
Yes, i'm fine.
Yes, the phone's working great!
Ahoy, there!
Enemy sighted at 3 o' clock!
Heather, we've played it already. Let's do Mermaids on the Rock.
No, it's the real enemy...
... who is coming on board, Peter!
- Aarrgh! - Yeah, take that Hook!
Not him...
Them!
It's invasion!
There's hundreds of them!
Who are they?
Office of Standards in Education.
OFSTED
OFSTED!
OFSTED
Please remember: You're not educational philosophers, but school inspectors.
Even if Summerhill might not feel like a school, it is registered as a one...
and, as such, has to meet certain minimum standards.
The key to a successful inspection...
will be to remain absolutely focused on the big question.
And that is...
Are the children getting an adequate education?
And if not... why not?
Precisely, Myrtle... Precisely.
So, you know the drill:
Quantifiable attainments.
Value added improvements.
Precise targets!
[LAUGHTER] Boozard!
That's a matter of order! I'm gonna bring you up for that, Peter.
This isn't right, Len.
I'm afraid it is.
OFSTED wrote to say they were coming for a three-day inspection.
No, I didn't mean that.
They've been in virtually every year for the past nine years...
... but they've never sent in eight inspectors before.
Len, I think this is a hit squad.
Somebody somewhere has got waiting for us to do things the government's way.
What are you doing, Zoey?
Not going quietly.
Move it, all out in rows.
Good job, Fire Committee!
Roger Warton.
Sorry Redhead but call me Zoey, everyone else does.
Mrs. will need the attendance book in lessons.
We have no such book.
That students are still free to choose whether to attend or not?
Absolutely. Children are not required to attend either one course as long as it is in Summerhill School.
The mean what?
Absolutely.
All courses remain optional.
We would like to follow the courses as soon as possible.
Unfortunately we have no today ...
... But you are welcome to watch the matches.
If you do sign up the lessons, it's still up to you
weather you actually come along or not.
But if and when you come do come along
... You can come along to learn and participate fully.
It is not fair to other guys if you come in here and mess about.
If you want to do that ...
... There is plenty of room out there.
Now,learn it's top tip for the new guys:
playing is the most important thing you will do here at Summerhill .
Make time for it.
Guys,l need your sheets back by this afternoon please.
And when I've drunk a couple of buckets of coffee and wrapped a warm towel around my head
... I will write your personal time tables
I'm going to do English
... And woodwork of course
Of course, you build a new boat?
Thank you, Peter.
What about you,Ryan?
Earth to Ryan?
What about a bit of astronomy, Ryan?
You know, the stars at night ...
Get to join up the dots.
No.
What about a language?
Good opportunity for conversation.
No.
We do a nice array on a magic tricks.
Bike Mechanics ...
Cricket;
No no no.
I do not want to sign up to any lesson.
Do I smell?
Ryan.
Didn't you just say you weren't interested?
No.
Okay, bye for now then. See you later.
Sorry that took so long.
I do hope I sound better in translation.
Now, has anybody got any questions?
Maddy.
How much are we allowed to sign up for?
Well, as much as you like really.
As many as you think you'll be happy with.
Yeah, as many as you like.
Yes, no lessons!
Come on! Yes Yes! No lessons!
Hello Maddy.
How is sign-up?
I didn't get any lessons for the first year I was here!
I could not do that.
I've got to keep on top of things.
Hi Mom.
Yes, I'm just signing up the lessons.
All my subjects are here.
They even do Japanese.
Yes, okay, I will .
English, Math, Science, Geography ...
Will he come back to lessons?
Probably
Probably?
I see...
Do you have an approximate time scale for "probably"?
Couple of weeks in most cases.
Sometimes it's months before the boredom and curiosity factor sets in.
It could be years.
Years?
Children do not have years.
Exactly why A.S. Neil thought that childhood was so precious.
The late Mr. Niel's philosophy is all very interesting I'm sure
... But what about the day-to-day practicalities?
What strategies have you put in place to support children like him?
We don't use strategies as such.
I do hope you will experience some of the Summerhill magic while you're here.
I'm sorry,but I can't see "magic" here on my tick-list.
No.
I cried a lot when I first came here.
You'll get into it. It's brilliant and fun!
I don't think so.
Does she ever let you alone?
This will cheer you up.
What will?
The lights out in half an hour!
Yes, Stella!
Come.
Do you want to go down town for fish and chips tomorrow?
I'm broke.
Anyone for kisses and cuddles?
Me!
Look, I have got sweets.
Yeah , and I have got some crisps.
What is that all for?
Me and Peter ...
... are planning to sneak out. A midnight feast.
Ssch, don't let them hear.
Why?
They're bed officers.
They'll make sure we go to bed.
I know, we could hide all under my invisibility cloak.
I do not want to get into trouble.
We won't.
Only if we get caught.
I am not coming.
Suit yourself.
Where did you get this phone?
My mom.
She is a lawyer.
Mine works abroad.
What do you think this place is?
Some of the kids are a bit weird.
Like Peter, right?.
"Invisibility cloak"
How old is he? Six?
Lend me a fiver?
I barely got a twenty pound note
and it is for an emergencies only.
Like what?
Don't worry.
Maddy.
How was your first night?
Come on.
Still offer town?
I thought you were skinned.
Well, I forgot I had this.
Welcome to our school meeting.
Meeting come to order!
Everyone, sit down and shut up!!
We are here to inspect the school.
Quiet, please.
I want to bring up Peter for throwing a waterballon ...
Hang on,there is an agenda, you have to wait.
I want to bring up Heather and Peter ...
... for sneaking out last night and waking me up.
Sorry, Stella speaks next.
I'm gonna speak for Maddy as ombudsman.
She saw Ryan taking twenty pounds from her cupboard.
You liar!
Shhh! Don't crosstalk.
Ryan, just tell us your side of the story..
- I didn't steal nothing!. - You did!
Peter.
Ryan was skinned last night, today he was freshing a twenty.
Just check his pockets. He has stuffed it in there.
Look, I will not do if you want to.
I haven't got the money.
Maddy says Ryan asked for her money last night ...
... And she told him her mom had given her twenty pounds.
Order!
How do we know that Ryan took Maddy's money?
I saw him coming out of our room last night.
Ryan that's pretty obvious you did it.
I found it...
I found it outside.
I find it a bit unprobable to find twenty pounds lying randomly..
I believe the new girl.
Sam stop crosstalking. If you want to say something put your hand up.
He shouldn't go into other rooms and take things ...
New kids always gonna get wild.
I did ...
Ok, that'll be fine, shut up!
I propose Ryan get a strong warning..
What about Maddy? She's lost twenty pounds!
That's a lot!
I propose that Ryan is fined twenty pounds.
It could be taken out of his pocke. - Pocket money?
How about we say two pounds a week?
Ok.
Anymore hands? No
Okay let's take the proposals.
So there are two proposals .
All those in favor of a strong warning for Ryan?
All those in favor of Ryan being fined twenty pounds and the money goes to Maddy?
Ryan it's been carried that you're fined two pounds a week for the next ten weeks.
Hold on, you can not leave without the permission of the chair!
Twenty fine for Ryan.
I'm worried about that boy.
We really must see some lessons, Myrtle.
You must get permission before leaving the meeting.
Really? The impertinence ...
Okay, meeting closed.
Hey, Maddy.
Did your sign up sheet?
Thank you.
Are you sure about these, Maddy?
You don't want to do any of the fun activities?
That's old man Neil.
He believed passionately that children have rights.
That they are not owned by the teachers ...
... Or your parents.
This is what I want to do.
Freedom is a big thing to deal with, Maddy.
You are not used to having it.
I thought you wanted to be mates.
I do!
You trashed me off!
But you stole the money!
Are you alright, Peter?
Hello, Mom.
Dad! Let me in!
Dad, where are you?
SOLD
Maddy! I can help you to make a wooden one.
Later... if you like.
Thanks, but I 've got lessons.
Come on, dad!
Pick up the phone!
He promised that it would be different this time.
Instead, he sold the house and he disappeared.
I'm sure there is a simple explanation.
Ryan, it is okay.
It's alright to cry.
Who is going to look after me now?
We are.
Oh yeah!
That's a lie too!
Cause the kids are going to chuck me out the next meeting and you know it.
Ah, there you are!
The classrooms are deserted!
That is because they are all in there.
Again...
I can't observe if there is nothing to... observe!
Come on in!
It is decided that you can come in.
This is a special meeting to sort out what happened with Ryan.
You were quite right about that boy, Myrtle.
He needs supervision and structure.
It wasn't a fight!
Peter never lifted a finger.
Ryan just kept kicking him.
Len.
I can't remember anything like this.
Well, perhaps once.
I propose Ryan is sent home for a week
I don't think it is long enough. He is a pain!
Send him home for the rest of the term!
It's getting serious, but I say three days is enough.
If you he has to stay here ...
and live with people who are fed up with him ...
he will get the point quicker.
Yes...
He went downtown to his home and is not allowed to do that.
Yes, you should be gated for that.
But he does not know all the rules.
He can read the rule book.
Anybody else got anything to say?
I know I got up to people's noses when I started here.
yes, you were right a little toe rag.
But you didn't try to break anyone's nose.
Alright, I didn't hit anyone.
but I knicked stuff that I could get my hand on.
And that was just the first week.
Kids have issues and get angry.
I was angry back then, and Ryan is now.
He got stuff going on in his life and maybe he will talk to somenone about it
But he won't if we just chuck him out.
I propose that Ryan get a strong warning for hitting me ...
and is gated for a week for going out school on his own.
Okay we have three proposals against each other.
All of those in favor of Ryan being sent home for a week?
All of those in favor of Ryan being suspended for the term?
All of those in favor of a strong warning for hitting Peter..
and gate him for a week for going downtown on his own.?
All against all!
It is carried! Ryan, you got a strong warning and is gated for a week. Okay?
Thanks everybody!
It is morning tea now and then lessons start for the term.
They are only cheering because they know they know they don't have to go.
Today we are going to write obituaries.
What's that?
Obituary means is a tribute to somebody who has recently died.
Like a hero, or someone brave or famous.
Correct
I do not know anyone famous dead people.
We don't have to worry about the real dead people.
The goal is try to imagine the kind life the person sitting next to us might live.
Heather, can you start?
What about Peter ...
the first boy to navigate the Globe ...
... In a bucket boat he made in a Summerhill workshop?
Great start!
Maddy?
I'm sorry, I know you do not know these guys very well.
How would you describe your life in, let's say, 70 years from now?
Mom: "Good luck on your first lesson"
Maddy? Just talk about that.
Don't worry about it too much Maddy.
Just let your imagination play.
Let her play with shining, fullfilled, happy lives.
Visit the wildest places of your imagination and just say "Hello"!
And that is how Maddy Chartpout, the famous navigator died ...
Slow down Peter.
... Died the moment after he discovered a bright island at the edge of the world.
Maddy?
You're not my mom.
We don't contact parents unless it is a life and death emergency. And even then not always.
I turned it off while you were asleep.
4 posts
I've got to get up
Hurry, they're in the woods!
Who are?
They are. They are coming to get us.
Here is a good place to trap the enemy.
Here,have the catapult.
Really? I can I use this??
You can't shoot at people, just pretend.
Hello,children.
We are not children.
Hook has been after Blackbeard for years.
You're surrounded.
Secure her!
I surrender.
Why should we spare you?
Give us one good reason.
If you let me go free ...
... I promise never to set foot in Neverlend again.
Treasure!
Yes!
It's my chance to catch Hook
Distract him with a shot.
Stop.
I found something.
Now what ?
I do not know, is improvisation, so we'll make it up as we go along.
Rather sums up the place, I fear.
Maddy, you want to help write the next bit?
How about: "Oh,mommy, oh,Daddy, you think I'm so sweet and so good ...
... But inside I'm evil! "
Can we say that?
Of course we can. It's drama.To make believe.
So what happens next?
Maddy?
Perhaps you can ask your mom what she thinks?
Maddy? You got an idea?
Hi Maddy, this is the seventh message that I've left you.
Please, when you get this, ring me straight away..
Once upon a time there was a little girl called Cinderella.
Who had a lot of issues with her parents.
Mother, I don't have a problem with daddy anymore.
I killed him last summer.
She was, in the old days...
... before child councelling and happy time medication ...
... seething with inner rage!
Basically, I am really disturbed.
Die! die! die! die!
Rose.... Rose! No!
Look, if Maddy has turned off her mobile phone that's her business.
No.
No, I can't ask her to turn it back on.
But that's not how we do things.
Poor little thing
I am not sure there is much we can do to help it, I'm afraid..
Why? What's wrong with him?
I think it's the runt of the litter
The weakest and most helpless.
The mother often abandons and leaves them to die I'm afraid.
We should probably just leave it, you know.....
... let nature take it's course.
I'm not leaving him here to die!
It's starving!
He's shaking.
It's probably cold as well as starving.
He. It's a boy.
We have got to find him something to eat, Peter.
Appearently you can use droppers to feed wild baby rabbits
Normal milk is alright for now but it might be better to get something called " kitten replacement milk".
Here ......
Thanks
Cheers, Missis lnspector!
It's perfect for the essential practice! Thanks Ryan.
Try these droppers
Thanks. You hold him you and I'll feed him.
Well, how do you know that the boiled sweet contains sucrose?
Em.....because it didn't react with Benedict solution.
It would have if i boiled it with hydrocronic acid
... And then neutralized with sodium solution.
Do you know why it doesn't give a reaction?
Because the reactive bits on to glucose molecules have been joined together to make sucrose
... And sucrose is not reduced sugar.
The plant makes it like that so that it doesn't damage the protein...
... As glucose itself would.
I used to be a science teacher myself.
He is super!
Are you open for university?
No, just some GCNCs for now.
GCNCs?
But he is working at A-level standard!
Ned only started coming to lessons last year.
But that is impossible!
When children decide they want to learn, they go like rockets.
Odd socks are like rabbits.
You got hundred more of them by morning.
What do you think we should call him?
Dinner?
Dinner. I like it.
What will happen to him at the end of term?
He's yours, you can take him home.
I'm sure your dad will come for you.
Ryan, you're not the only person here with a less than perfect life.
That's why we love Summerhill School.
It is like a real home.
That thing dead yet?
How is that?
Yes, that's right.
They are too close together.
You should spread them out a bit more.
If the inspectors do not like school ...
... they can shut it down, can't they?
If the government wanted to close Summerhill they would have done it years ago.
Have I missed the meeting?
You're for the high jump.
Oh, no ...
Sorry, I lost track of the time.
I have heard from all the others.
Of course Roger, sorry ...
Baby Rabbits only need feeding once a day ...
Sorry.
Right, here we are.
Observations.
Are the children getting a proper education?
It depends on what you mean by "proper education".
One that generally includes going to lessons.
There is one 14-year-old who has attained A-level standard in the sciences.
And judging by those photographs, he is not the only academic high-flyer. .
Children who are inclined to learn are one thing...
But what about the rest of them?
They are allowed to fall behind.
This is a failing school, Myrtle.
But what about the good things?
I've written lots on citizenship,
anti-bullying, inclusiveness...
Our job is not to inspect children's democracies.
But what about the way the community has dealt with Ryan?
You know, that boy...
... they've embraced him.
I don't pretend to understand Summerhill and it is certainly not perfect but...
... there is something about this place.
Magic?
Ah, sorry, not disturbing anything, am I?
Not at all.
Shall we step out for a moment?
We are going into the woods, who wants to come?
Peter?
I'm starting on the ship's mast.
How about you, Maddy?
Alright!
Yes!
Come on!
Look ...
Summerhill is on the TBW-list and has been for years
TBW?
Well, that explains all the inspections.
We are pecking them to death!
I need to present our findings to Mrs. Redhead.
TBW!
Maddy!
Mama!
What is going on?
Playing.
What?
I am playing!
Yes I can see that and you are climbing trees which I banned you from doing, it is dangerous!
Why aren't you answering your phone, huh?
And why aren't you in class?
I told you to go to lessons!
It is like the exams.
When I wrtite my head seizes up.
Like I am being blown up from the inside
- I just can't! - Or won't!
That is not true, Mom! Please, listen...
Alright, go and pack your things, Maddy, we are going home.
No! I love it here.
I'm happy.
Now!
- Do what I tell you! - Get off me!
You must ensure that pupils are fully engaged in studies across a broad and balanced curriculum.
But, we listen to what each of our children wants to learn about
... And then we make our curriculum to suit them.
And we make the school fits the child, that's Summerhill!
With respect, Mrs. Redhead
... you don't really believe that the child can be trusted to know what's best for him, I'm sure
That's exactly what we believe!
Children can not fulfil their true potential ...
... If they are not free to be themselves.
How can children fulfil their potential if they don't attend lessons on a regular basis.
Ah........
This is what this is about, isn't it?
Forcing children into classrooms.
Don't even bother sending your children here!
These are her majesty's inspectors..
Do you know that the teachers tell the children that they needn't bother going to lessons?
Maddy made the decision herself.
She is eleven! How does he know what is best for her?
Because she's got a mind of her own.
I'm withdrawing my daughter with immediate effect.
You must ensure adequate provision is made for pupils with dyslexia.
So, to sum up
Summerhill has many shortcomings...
But the root cause of these defects is the non-attendance of lessons.
And this is likely to adversely affect the children's future prospects.
That's just not true!
It is our opinion.
So? What happens next?
I submit the report then OFSTEAD decide what to do next.
I think you can expect to see me again in a matter of days Mrs. Redhead.
There you go.
Be safe now.
Len, Len!
Fire! over there!
It's the workshop, Ryan
Run to the office as quick as you can!
Fire! at the workshop.
Maddy!
Where have you been!?
Peter is missing!
He is in the workshop!
Will! Will!
I can see him. He is over there!
Everyone back!
Everyone, get all buckets you can get your hands on and fill them from the pool.
Peter! Peter!
It's gonna be OK.
How did it start?
We do not know, Ryan raised the alarm.
I bet some little hooligans started this deliberetly!
Somebody must have seen something.
I saw Ryan. He did it!
Maddy?
Are you certain?
Zoe,
we think Peter is inside.....
What?!
Will is going after him.
Did you hear me?!!!!
Did you hear me?! Will!!!
Who is in there?
It's Will and Peter, who is eleven. - Two inside!
Any idea who had started?
We think it was Ryan.
I didn't do it!
Maddy is a witness.
Awesome! Suspect identified!
.
We can't leave until the morning
.
We have to give the police a witness statement, Maddy.
I don't want to......
I know darling.......
I'll take you home as soon as I can. It's just you are the only one who saw Ryan started the fire.
I think the police is trying to contact his parents now.
His mom works abroad.
Well, she would better hurry and get back, because that boy is in big trouble.
Don't,Jed! I don't want you to come.
I'm taking over now, you've done enough damage.
I understand you have no contact details where either Ryan go to his parents?
Ryan's father will be in touch.
Well.......until he does, childprotecting services has a duty to look after him.
But he is school's responsability during term time.
So you are happy to take the responsability for Ryan if he did start the fire.
Oh.....I don't know......I mean we've never had this sort of things before
Oh, come on......
This is the do-as-you-like-school for difficult children, isn't it?
This is a democratic school for all kids.
The community will listen to what Ryan's got to say in the meeting and then we'll make a descision on what to do for the best.
I don't think you understand........
If Ryan is charged with deliberetaly starting a fire I will be removing him from school today.
a bunch of kids chatting about, it won't save the day.
Tell you what, it often does.
Sorry?
You'd be amazed by what happenes when you are trusting kids and their instincts.
Sally....yeah?
If you believe everything you've read about us, why don't you come to the meeting?
I'll discuss your request with sergant Bill.
Zoe, I didn't do it.
Hey.....trust them.
Quiet!This is another special meeting. We've got to talk about the fire.
First,we need to vote on a few people.
Hang on....where is Maddy??
I'll go find her.
I'd like to propose some other comes in as well.
All those in favour of Maddy's mother attending!
Against!
That's carried!
Mrs Robins and sergant Bill would like to come in. On the favour that they can come in?
Against!
That's also carried.
You've been invited into the school meeting.
We'd very much apreciate if Maddy could tell us what happened.
No, there is no time, We are just waiting when the police will interview and then we are leaving
Ryan says he didn't do it and Maddy isn't telling the truth.
What??!
Maddy! Would you got those things out of your ears!
Alright! We've got to get on, because this is really serious.
Like... hugely serious! Ryan could have killed Will and Peter. - Mary, let me chair this!
Ryan is in big trouble and he says he didn't start the fire. Maddy says she saw him. Can you tell the meeting what you saw, Maddy?
I finished making my op for the sign-up board and I was just hanging around and I saw Ryan pouring the tin of varnish on the camp fire.
She's lying, Peter! It wasn't me! I never do anything like that!
Is this because of the money?
What money? What is he talking about?
Really!
The meeting fined Ryan for stealing 20 pounds from Maddy.
It's another thing you didn't tell me about
I don't know if the community can cope with Ryan.
I agree, it's not just Peter's boat that got burned.
What about the workshop?
I propose we send Ryan home for good.
Hold up! Before we string him up, let's get Ryan a chance to say something.
I never did it!
I wasn't even there!
I was sorting out my rabbit hutch, near Len's caravan
I was listening to those inspectors going on about the school or something.
And I'd seen flames.
So I ran and knocked on Len's door
That's it!
Honest!
OK! I admit it! I stole the money
Alright!
I'm sorry!
I nick stuff, but I don't start fires!
You got to believe I didn't do it!
OK! Ryan is saying one thing and Maddy is saying another
I don't know who to believe now.
I believe Maddy. Ryan is always in trouble.
I think he should go home for the rest of the term.
But we don't definitely know he did it, Minh.
There is no evidence!
We don't know if Ryan started the fire or not
But if he did he is in serious trouble anyway.
If the fire is deliberate... yes!
I mean that Summerhill is subject to the law of the land like everywhere else
and after this meeting the police take over
If the police decide that Ryan did it, what will happen to him?
He will become a looked after child.
But Matt is already looking after him?
No, it means that he will be taken away from here.
You see that lady over there?
She is a social worker
She will take him into care.
But why can't he just go home?
What about his mum and dad?
Ryan's mum is not around at the moment and we are not sure where his dad is.
Maddy?
I lied.
It was me.
What are you talking about? Sit down! -No mum, let me talk!
I wanted to burn my form on the campfire but it wasn't catching
so I threw the tin of varnish on
I never meant to burn the workshop down.
She is not herself, she had a shock.
No, mum... I have to say something.
Before I came here I was really badly stressed and
I still can't do with writing and test and stuff.
But this place is just so cool
and I got my head around going to the lessons I just wanted to go to.
I was feeling good about myself for the forst time in ages
Until you turned up!
Maddy!
That's why I wanted to burn my form
because I knew I wouldn't need it anymore
Mum told me she was taking me away from Summerhill and
I just lost it!
I just lost it completely
cause I am desperate to stay.
I am sorry I lied.
And Peter, I am sorry about your arm!
And your boat!
That was very brave of you, Maddy!
That was very brave, Maddy!
... And after this meeting will take on the police.
But it doesn't bring back Peters's boat.
And Maddy did try to put the blame on Ryan.
We need to fine you, Maddy!
There is no point
Unless we know that Maddy's mum is going to let Maddy stay.
You are very lucky, Maddy!
The police aren't taking it any further.
What about Ryan?
Well, they are still not sure what will happen at the end of term
if his father doesn't turn up
but Ryan can stay for now.
Are you ready to go?
I want to stay!
No, you're coming home with me!
They want to give me a chance, mum.... Unlike you.
Maddy! I give you lots of chances.
I work so hard to give you a good life.
And I got one.. here! You and dad sent me to Summerhill
Good decision!
Now let me stay!
I don't know if I can do that.
They are going to give me a fine. Let me work it out!
I got to make it up to them.
I want to do the right thing, mum.
Just until the end of term.
Mum, please!
I am not sure.
You're not sure... but I am sure. Let me decide something for myself.
Even if it's just this once. Then I'll never ask you for anything ever again.
And I'll do everything you say. I promise, across my heart.
Alright Maddy, you can stay!
Only until the end of term.
Thanks mum!
This means so much to me.
Just look after yourself!
I will. You too, mum.
Maddy!
I said sorry!
You lost something.
They will impose my fine.
Leave me to fight.
I must repay them.
I want to do the right thing mom!
Mandy did not ... I ...
Only by the end of the four months since.
Mom, please.
I am not sure.
You are not sure ...
... But I'm sure!
Let me decide something for myself.
Even if it is only for this time.
After not more sought you anything again.
And I will do what I tell you.
I promise!
Mama;
Okay Mandy ...
... You can not stay.
Only by the end of four months, okay?
Thanks mom!
This means too much to me.
Just take care of yourself.
I'll be careful...
... And you in the same mom.
And tell Dad that I miss.
Mandy.
I apologized.
Summerhill teaches children how to manage themselves.
To manage their minds,their bodies, their relationships, their emotions, gives them an owner's manual for life!
I'm sorry but we just can't measure that.
Is this what you wanted to do when you were a child?
I don't wanna Summerhill to be closed down.
I know, neither do I, that's why we've got Mark here.
Hello, I am Mark! I'm a silicitor, a specialist in human rights.
They asked me to come down and talk to you.
Why?
We could take the goverment to court.
That's madness, isn't? no?
Is it? Will be affair of fight.
A Judge would help their side if the inspectors are right and the school is rubbish.
Or you are right and the school is just different.
But how can we afford to go to court?
We can't even afford to do this in a school bus.
You'd need to rise at least a hundred thousand pounds to prepeare for the case.
A hundred southand puonds!-Is it how much you cost??
No,no but...we need a good barrister to fight at the court and they cost a lot of money.
We just have to raise the money.
If thats soon Summerhill can stay opened.
Well, we could negotiate with teh goverment couldn't we?
We've got to stay true to who we are!
Yeah!!!
Maddy!- I think the inspectors are just bullies. And we have to do a deal with bullies, stand up to them.
What do you think, Zoe?
Well,dad would want us to stand up for what we're beliving.
Shell we take a vote?!
All those in a favour of taking a goverment to court?
Against!
It's carried! Summerhill is gonna stand up to the inspectors
I know how can we raise the money!We can write letter to people who lived in Summerhill who now lives brilliant lives!
That's a great idea!
And gether them to tell what they think of the school. We can use that as evidence in court.
I found an idea.
We can get bags from the supermarket!
Smashing!
No, the eggs have to go on top!
um......I can always spot a winner!
You'd better be right!
We've to raise a huge amount of money.
You need to gather a huge amount.
Wait a second! we've enough to properly go challenge! we've done it!!! Yeah!
We have done it,buddy! ok!
oh,dad......what if we lose......
Mark! You are in very early! Have you prepeared
The children would have to vote.
Oh,yes.....the famose children democracy....
Oh,no,Mark.....don't tell me you've got to represent them yourself.....
Well...... - you've got no money!
Save our school! save our school!
I wish you were coming to - So do I, Maddy! Good luck!
This place is everything to me....you go and win for us!
Summerhill, the contravercial school founded by A.S.Neil takes it's fight to the High Court today.
A school where pupils can spend all day playing ,has been slammed by education chefs
As giving children such a poor education, they shold be closed.
I'm Fill, Jad, our daughter Maddy goes there.
She persuaded me to take the compaign. She is a great girl you must be really proud of her.
All rise!
Where is Summerhill.....
Bye bye Summerhill......
Miss James, perhaps you'd like to begin.
A secretary of State of Educations vs Summerhill
We haven't got an hour......
I might be able to help......- Ryan?
Alright! try it now!
Your honor I eppeare for the secretary of State of Education
The office of standarts in education
And her medjestice Inspectorate
Personally, I think it's an enormose waste of time and money to bring the case to court and then fail to show up.
Save our school! save our school!
We are all here yet? - Well, I'm not sure Your Honor....
I knoq who she is....She is the enmy, she is Hook! Captain Hook!
Who is that?- That is Jefrey Robinson, one of the best lawers money can buy.
How could the School afford him???
The Secretary of State is fully aware of the huge influence of A.S Neil and his school on the world of education.
The Goverment is concerned only with the children
And how well they are being tought.
Now, in a case of Summerhill this is very inefficiently indeed.
The root of the problem is non-attendence of lessons.
And this is because the Summerhill doesn't follow the national curriculum.
Oh,no....they have their own!The "cop-out" curriculum
Cop-out curriculum? like it!
Over the years the school has taken their founder's phylosophy of freedom.
And used it as an excuse to be idol
Now is our turn to say what the inspectors are wrong about
If there is anyone from the Department of Education who has ever actually been a child
Perhaps you all were born fully adults
Complete with clipboards.....
adjection Your Honor!
Neil didn't believe in forcing children to sit in classrooms they didn't want to be in and taking exams
He wanted them to grow up with a sense of emotional wellbeing
He gave them a voice
A voice is still being heard today
A democracy that still going strong during 79 years later
look at the Summerhill
Actress,artist,doctor,culturist.engeneer,research chemist,professoe of mathematics, nurse,charity director,dancer.
The only significant occupation isn't represented (and this may come as a great credit for the school)are politicians and schools inspectors.
We do not sit to suggest that Summerhill suits everyone,but it does suit the great majority of children who goes there.
I would like to start, Mr President saying that the Ministry of Education ...
Surely, by any intelligent educational system Summerhill would be regarded as a....well, let's say a unique educational establishment.
Sadly OFSTED isn't being intelligent.....
And to conclude, your Honor, I'd like to suggest that it is not Summerhill that is failing, it's OFSTED itself....
Hook is planning something......look!
I swear to tell the truth the whole truth and nothing but the truth.
Inspector Warten.
Would you say that the teachers in Summerhill are failing in their teaching responsability?
I wouldn't use the word "failing"..you know.....
But children with special need are, as a matter of principle,being overlook?
Yes,one boy with dislexia was clearly struggling with his reading and writing.
His teacher nearly typed his word for him.
Hook is talking about me.
Dislexic children need specialist , your Honor
We wanted to make sure that Peter will feel succesful in front of his classmates.
So, the children are allowed to drift and fall behind
In fact, these children are rather discouraged from attending lessons.
Is that your view?
She is playing duel....she is twisting everything thriugh her argument.
That's her job,
Well, with the attitude like this, is it any wonder that the childer do as they pleased.....
There is another instance where one boy attacted another boy
An incident where not one single member of stuff interviing
.
Zoe,please......
How many more incidents like this happen every day, your Honor?
I object!
Go on,Miss James.
I'll ask you......Is this freedom or an abrigation of responsability?
On a part of the teaching stuff at Summerhill.
And then ofcourse, there is the matter of the fire........
fire.......
Why wasn't I told about this??
You knew the fire was an accident!
Order,please!
Zoe,please.....-But how can we.......
Yes, but Summerhill was TBW anyway......
TBW?
TBW....I've heard it somewhere before......
It's OFTER's.....mjust meaning the school was giving us couse for concern.
Your Honor, may I suggest a break?
Ah.....we will resume it.
The fire was an accident....
That stupid fight.......
I can read much better now......
Hello,Ryan,Peter....did the rabbit....?
Make it! You should see him now! He is huge!
I'm so pleased.......
Look.....Summerhill is on the TBW list, it has been for years....
Where are you going?
I'm going back in....I need to tell something about Smith.
I'm coming with you!
Me too!
Why are you trying my petience, Mr. Robinson?
I appologize, your Honor, but there is some important evidence, just came to hand.....
TBW......
I'm sorry......
TBW.....
Mr. Warten, would you be kind to enlighten us whta "TBW" stands for?
You mentioned earlier:"But Summerhill was TBW anyway......"
Well, what's that mean?
To be watched
I'm sorry, I can't hear you, could you speak up louder.
TO BE WATCHED!
to.....be.......watched.......
What's he chasing....?
Mr. Warden, did you had any point say to Summerhill the reason they have been inspected
because we're worried about the philosophy that pupil's aren't forced o go to lessons, because that's reality, isn't it?
The reality is that routine inspections were made because we were worried that the scool wasn't providing
officiant and suitable instructions ........
You've mentioned the word "routine"
so, what was happening at Summerhill wasn't a slightest beat routine, was it?
Because Summerhill was on goverment hate list
OFSTED had a school in it sight for the best part of decade. And in this year.....
You decided to jagular and shut it down.
I object,your Honor!
This is conjecture!
Please........
The school was TO BE WATCHED it was on a hate list for 9 years. Mr. Warton, why was the school not told about this?
I'm not sure.....
You aren't sure.....
But< I'm sure.....The answer is that because it was a secret.
Watch out!
Reference, your honor, is page 233 Summerhill to remain TBW
An internal OFSTED letter dated 199.......
three......
God........
Which means,your honor,that Summerhill was on a hate list way before 1993!
Your Honor it wasn't a hatelist!
Then fed up with endless year and year out inspections when to get the desired effect.
You're a conjecture
OFSTED came in a team of 8
Yes........
1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8
To close it down
Prove it!
Watch me!
.
I agree. It would have been desireable.
Mr.Walton be honest.....OFSTED wanted to close The Summerhill down, you decided on a game of sudden death.
I'm not sure I follow
Are you forcing Summerhill to do something they would never agree to, making lessons compulsory in order you strike it from the regoster of schools.
Submit your Honor that this is what you had in mind from the moment you said put the school, this was a game in hand.
Listen, the Summerhill School is in the PP list years.
Where are you going;
I'm going back inside. I have to say something to the Pan about me.
- Tactical advantage ... I'm coming with you! - And I!
You try my patience, Mr. Robertson?
Sorry Mr. President, but some important information came to our attention.
PP
Sorry;
PP .;
Mr Gouornten will you kindly enlighten us about what PP .;
You mentioned earlier "... the Summerhill School is anyway PP"
So what does it mean?
to Watch
Sorry, I did not hear you, you speak louder?
To monitor.
To follow ...
Where is he going?
Mr Gouornten said sometime in Summerhill School ...
... That the reason inspect your very ...
... It is because they are concerned with the philosophy of non-compulsory subjects, right?
The reality is that routine inspections were ...
... Because we were concerned that the school did not provide ...
Efficient and appropriate teaching, yes ...
Give the word routine.
But what happened with the Summerhill School had nothing to do with routine so?
Why Summerhill School was included in the Ministry of executing list.
The OFSTENT had school targeted for most of the decade ...
... And this year ...
... Decided to hit the heart ...
... And close it!
I object Mr. President! This is conjecture.
Robertson, please.
The school was to follow was an execution list for nine years.
Mr Gouornten because the school was not informed about it?
I'm not sure.
You're not sure. Fortunately I am though.
The answer is because it was secret.
A secret!
Watch out!
The reference, Mr. President, on page 233.
"The Summerhill School remain PP"
An internal letter dated OFSTENT nine hundred ninety ...
...three. - On guard!
This means that the Summerhill School was in execution list well before 1993.
Mr President, it was not the execution list.
And then, having bored consecutive years of inspections without the desired effect ...
Clear guess.
The OFSTENT sent a team of eight.
Yes...
One, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight ...
This makes us one inspector for every seven students of the school ...
... In order to shut it down.
Prove it!
Look at me!
Of course the school has a fundamental right to know why subject to such monitoring levels?
Agree, it would be desirable.
Mr Gouornten frankly talk.
The OFSTENT wanted to close Summerhill School ...
... And you chose the tactics of sudden death, is not it?
I do not think watching you.
Forcing the Summerhill School to do something that you knew would never agree.
Doing the required courses.
Believed that they will disappear from the files.
I commend Mr. President, if I may ...
... That what you had in mind from the moment you set foot in school.
This ... was your game.
My dear friend takes them all out of his mind!
indeed? Who sees what his mind?
Mr President, I need to consult!
The court cut off for an hour.
- Give me that. - Give it to me...
Page 24 I'm sure ...
Geoffrey ...
The ministry decided that he wanted to reduce slightly the pressure in Summerhill School.
Want to indulge?
You give up just before you cut the head.
Sit down please.
Please Mrs. James.
The Ministry of Education offered the lady Rentchent a court settlement.
He was received?
Ms. Rentchent can not make this decision for the school.
The community must decide whether to accept him or continue the trial.
They need to recover here, if this is acceptable.
With all due respect Mr. President, I ...
Of course.
Thank you, Mr. President.
You will chair the meeting.
And you'll be the secretary.
So what now?
We are voting on whether to allow observers.
Excuse me sir.
Visitors are not allowed in our assemblies.
We must vote whether to allow their ...
... I say, stay.
This is ridiculous ...
Of course! Please.
Ante Stella.
Quiet!
There is a theme for the special assembly today.
But in principle I propose to allow observers to stay ...
... To see how we do things.
Who is in favor?
Who is?
Therefore passes.
You are all invited to stay.
Great!
Life.
What settlement says?
"The Ministry of Education recognizes that this independent school ...
... Based as it is written and the methods of AC Neil ...
... Has the right to philosophy. "
This is very important, because what it says ...
... That is not obliged to do things as the government wants.
But, inspectors will continue to come?
The OFSTENT required to get us from the list To Watch ...
... And then make regular inspections.
But when they will come in about four years ...
... They should be accompanied by a specialist in our type of training.
Ryan?
If we agree, we can choose our courses?
And not be forced to go at all?
"Freedom for children attend optional courses ...
... According to Neil philosophy, fully recognized. "
Yes!
Hey, quiet!
We are meeting! Ten cents fine Will!
So, the two proposals are:
To accept the compromise ...
... Or let Life, our specialists and around our world ...
... To show how we are great school and give the government it deserves.
And maybe lose.
This is Stella. You got it.
Lucy?
Life, what do you think?
I do not know Lucy, really do not know.
I think I will feel deceived if the opportunity is not given to me ...
... To defend the school against all these lies.
Let us fight to the end.
Yes!
A peace agreement is sometimes the best results ...
... If a war ends.
This agreement will make the Summerhill School school the most protected in the world.
It is a charter of freedom.
Other questions?
Who is to accept the arrangement proposed by the Government?
Who is?
Decided.
We accept the compromise of government.
Thank you...
... Mr and Mrs ...
... For allowing us the privilege of meeting your court.
Each other, it was an honor to allow us to track your assembly.
I think that you too you share the privilege given to you?
Thank you.
Mr President, I think you are to be finished.
This court formally cancels the extrajudicial protest against school Summerhill School.
Historic scenes played out in court today ...
... As Summerhill School school beats the government ...
... In a battle that can only be described as a "David vs. Goliath"!
Following this decision, it is safe to say ...
... That freedom and learning go hand in hand in Summerhill School.
It seems to me entirely appropriate.
The children of Summerhill School describe as the happiest school in the world.
And judging by the scenes here today ...
... Probably be right.
We have said from the beginning that we are not trying to close the Summerhill School, thanks.
You came to take me home, right?
Mandy, my problem with the Summerhill School ...
But mom ...
Mandy, my problem with the Summerhill School has more to do with me ...
... Than anything else ..
I like everything to be neat and organized ...
... I like lists and objectives.
I'm crazy about control!
Let's face it, it's like we have an inspector in the family.
The Summerhill School is ...
... And gold ...
... Bright, cheerful ...
... Relaxed, has nothing to do with me.
I make my impression that you love so much.
No, I do not mind ...
... I know what I am.
But you do not know who you are yet.
Come back at Summerhill School and ...
... Discovered.
I love Mandy.
Just not easy for me to show you the.
Oh, mom ...
Once you have done.
Boo!
I stay Ryan!
And I will return the next four months, no need to leave!
Ryan? What happens;
Nobody can find my dad.
Social workers come tomorrow for me.
And what will happen in the next quarter?
I will not be at school, they would have been in care.
I do not want you to leave.
Neither do I want it Mandy.
Mark to come here.
I want you to meet our new teacher science.
And I believe that will adopt them!
Myrtle.
The Myrtle undertakes after Emma.
But this is amazing!
I intend to stay here until they do not distinguish me from my plutonium.
Just kidding of course!
Come!
Three, two, one ... go!
Well done my boy.
There will be at launch?
Just Feed the Dino.
Ryan, someone has come to see you.
Hello!
Dad! Where were you;
I lost my job in the garage.
It appeared an opportunity in Dubai.
You have to see this place!
I had to call you!
But you said it would be better to leave it to you for four months.
I think you got a little literally.
And what happened to the house? Sell!
Had Ryan was part of the plan.
What silly plan was that?
You like Ryan here?
I adore it.
Tuition Ryan.
I am sorry for the delay.
I think you made a mistake.
The Secretariat told me that if I want to pay five years in advance so it costs.
Five years;
I mean I can stay here until I was sixteen?
If they want to.
It has caused any trouble?
At all.
It's okay then my son?
Yes Dad, it's okay.
Now ... where is this barbecue?
So hungry that I can eat an entire horse in two layers!
Ready?
Where is Ryan?
We have to take!
- Mandy!
Ok, let's go!
Raise the sail!
FREEDOM