module 2 LISTENING MY EXPERIENCE AT SUMMERHILL COMMUNICATION Before listening, read a short introduction about Summerhill School. A.S. Neill s Summerhill School, a boarding school in Suffolk, England, is the original alternative free school. Founded in 1921, it continues to be an influential model for progressive, democratic education around the world. All lessons are optional. There is a wide choice of subjects, up to and above GCSE level. A new timetable is created each term when the older children have signed-up for classes, though there is no compulsion to attend. Apart from the structured timetable, there is free access to art, woodwork and computers. An important freedom at Summerhill is the right to play. There are open areas where children not in class can meet, amuse themselves, socialise, play games or be creative. Children at Summerhill School Now listen to an interview with three teenagers, Susan, Jack and Mary, who attended Summerhill and complete the table. SUSAN Exams taken Opinion of noncompulsory lessons Summerhill s influence on personality The most valuable thing about Summerhill 82 JACK MARY