Converting a School
I call your attention to a certain undervaluing of children and undervaluing of knowledge which mar our ideal of education. If we realise that the mind and knowledge are like two members of a ball and socket joint, necessary to each other and acting only in concert, we shall understand that our function as teachers is to supply children with the rations of knowledge which they require; and that the rest, character and conduct, efficiency and ability, and, that finest quality of the citizen, magnanimity, take care of themselves.
When the leadership of an existing school recognises the need for a renewed vision of Christian education and believes that central to that renewal are Charlotte Mason’s philosophy and the Ambleside Method, Ambleside Southern Africa is ready and able to assist an existing school in implementing its new vision.
The initial stage is marked by the work of due diligence, during which time the school leadership develops and solidifies a firm conviction of the importance of bringing an Ambleside education to their community. This stage includes meeting with leadership of Ambleside Southern Africa, reading suggested materials, watching the videos featured on this site, and attending an Ambleside Internship, where a deeper study of the philosophy, combined with classroom observations, brings clear vision to what makes an Ambleside School so distinctive. Furthermore, the school's leadership must receive the undeniable sense that God has called them to this philosophy and method and that this is the time to proactively seek to become an Ambleside School.
Throughout the process, the school's leadership should continually walk in God’s presence through prayer. If they choose to become part of the Ambleside community, they will be supported throughout the process, receiving essential materials, directed tasks, and opportunities to consult. Through thinking, discussion, prayer and action clarity is brought to each stage of the work.
For more information on converting a school, please email us at admin@amblesideschools.org.za.