In a class of their own
NO PHONES, no backchat, no jewellery, no shouting – and certainly no cigarette or coffee breaks. In this extraordinary TV experiment, a class of parents are going back to primary school to experience what it’s like to be a Year 6 student. But how will they cope?
“There are less rules in prison,” says decorator Jonny, 36. While others look frankly terrified as they are given their school uniform.
For half a term, the parents will study in a classroom next door to their own children at Blackrod Primary School in Bolton, experiencing the same regime, homework and school dinners, while participating in PE, art, music and dance lessons as well as the usual academic subjects.
At the end of the term, they will sit exams.
The class – average age, 40 – will also face the same discipline if they misbehave.
Headteacher Mr Dryburgh says: “Bringing adults into school seems potentially bizarre but the learning opportunities are immense. Colleagues around the country will think we’re bonkers.”
Some of the children think it’s bonkers too, judging by their faces when the parents are paraded into assembly.
“Oh my God, that’s your mum!” gasps one girl, while another boy says: “I’m used to her at home, but here? No chance.”
To start their new class, teacher Mrs Mead gives them a maths test, to gauge their abilities. It all proves too much for one mum who runs out crying.
Given that most children telling their parents they do “nothing” at school all day, this is an entertaining and eye-opening insight.