What the Phoenix Education Trust Does
The Phoenix Education Trust is a small national charity which promotes education in which all members of the school community have a voice and real power in decision-making.
Founded in 2001 by Lord Young of Dartington, the Trust works to highlight the importance of young people’s active participation in decision-making in education.
The Trust is involved in a number of projects that explore or promote the idea of children and young people as decision-makers in education. This includes support for schools where the principles of democratic education are put into practice. In addition it commissions research that can effectively illustrate the benefits of democratic education. The Trust also raises funds to support democratic education initiatives.
By gathering and disseminating examples of good practice, the Trust educates policy-makers, children, parents, teachers and the promoters of education about the advantages of applying democratic principles, both in and out of school.
A recent example of this is the Trust’s work on behalf of the General Teaching Council, England to find out what skills and attributes primary school pupils hoped to see in the adults that they come in contact with during their school lives.
The Trust also supports teachers and students by the provision of resources, including training and support materials, travel bursaries and a teachers support network.
The Trust holds events – including seminars, conferences and fundraising occasions – to raise the profile of democratic education and student participation, and to debate key issues.
To subscribe to the Trust’s regular newsletter please your postal contact details to us and we will add you to our mailing list.
