Young people who are not attending school may be offered an alternative way of learning called Notschool.

Notschool is in its second year of development by Ultralab at Anglia Polytechnic University and the Department of Education and Skills and is already attracting world-wide interest.

Aimed at children who are disengaged it offers an online method of learning. The youngsters can choose a subject they wish to persue as 'researchers' and are put in touch on line with one of a team of specialist educators.

The site is secure but presented in a very child friendly, non-school speak way and run by Jean Johnson and her team.

The youngsters are put forward by their schools and then attend an induction session before being sent off with their computer. A home-school contract agreement is signed that the computer can only be used for educational purposes.

"Notschool is not like school." Said Jean. "It's about engaging people in learning. The principle is to bring them back into education. There is no pressure to go back to school although over 30 per cent of the first cohort wanted to stay on with us. We never ask about their background although we know bullying is a significant factor, whether it is bullying or you feel bullied."

Ken Noyce, manager of the pupil support service at Essex County Council said: "There are currently four on the scheme. Schools can buy into it. It costs £3,500 per student. The LEA supports it in kind, staff time, making sure statutory duties are safeguarded. Primarily it was for truants- now the scope has extended. This is an alternative for certain pupils."

To find out more visit www.notschool.net

Published Monday, March 4, 2002