Schools are achieving their purpose

The concept of formal education has undergone significant transformations since its
inception, largely influenced by societal and economic needs. The modern schooling system,
in many ways, was designed to produce a compliant workforce suited to the demands of the
Industrial Revolution. As John D. Rockefeller famously stated, “I don’t want a nation of
thinkers, I want a nation of workers.” This quote encapsulates the original intent behind the
establishment of schools: to create individuals who could efficiently perform monotonous
tasks without questioning authority.

The Historical Context of Schooling
The rise of factory labour in the 19th century brought about a new era in education. Factories
required workers who would adhere strictly to a management hierarchy, taking orders
without hesitation. This need shaped the educational model, emphasising obedience,
punctuality, and repetition. Schools became institutions that prepared children for lives
spent in factories or offices, where they would engage in painfully repetitive tasks.

The structure of traditional schooling mirrored this environment, with a focus on rote
memorisation and strict discipline. Students were trained to follow directions precisely,
much like workers following assembly line instructions. The goal was to produce a generation
of individuals who could "slave away at machines or in offices," performing tasks that required
minimal critical thinking or creativity.

Are Schools’ Original Purposes Still Relevant?
As we navigate the complexities of the 21st century, it is crucial to question whether the
original purposes of schools remain suitable in today's rapidly evolving world. The landscape
of work has changed dramatically; industries now demand creative problem solvers and
innovators rather than mere followers of instructions. The World Economic Forum
emphasises the increasing importance of skills like adaptability and critical thinking, which
starkly contrasts with the traditional educational focus.

Moreover, research indicates that confining students to a rigid classroom environment can
stifle creativity. A study published in the Journal of Educational Psychology found that play
and movement are essential for cognitive development and creativity. This aligns with the
observation that traditional schooling, with its emphasis on indoor learning and structured
routines, may not adequately prepare students for the dynamic and often unpredictable job
market.

The Need for Free Thinkers
In an age where innovation drives economic growth, the need for free thinkers has never been
more pressing. Educational reform advocates argue that fostering creativity is essential for
future success. Sir Ken Robinson, an influential educational thinker, argued that “creativity is
as important as literacy,” highlighting the necessity for schools to evolve from their original
purpose of producing obedient workers.

Scientific research supports this argument, pointing to the detrimental effects of limited
physical activity on children's development. According to the Centres for Disease Control
and Prevention (CDC), children should engage in at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily.
Schools that prioritise strict schedules and sedentary learning environments may hinder
students' overall growth and well-being.

The Rise of Homeschooling
Interestingly, the traditional schooling model has faced competition from alternative
educational methods, most notably homeschooling. Over the past decade, there has been a
marked increase in homeschooling rates in both the UK and the USA.

In the UK, homeschooling saw a significant rise from approximately 34,000 children being
home educated in 2015 to about 140,000 in the academic year 2022-2023. This represents an
increase of over 300% and reflects growing dissatisfaction with the school system, unmet
special educational needs, and mental health concerns exacerbated by the COVID-19
pandemic.

In the USA, the trend is similarly notable. In 2015, around 2.3 million students were
homeschooled, and by 2025, this number is projected to rise to approximately 3.7 million.
This increase, attributed to concerns about the school environment and the desire for
tailored education, has been particularly pronounced during the pandemic. Research
indicates that homeschooled students often perform better academically, scoring
significantly higher on standardised tests compared to their public school counterparts.

What Changes Are Necessary in Schools Today?
To create a more relevant and effective educational system, significant changes must occur.
First and foremost, schools should emphasise creativity and critical thinking over rote
memorisation. Implementing project-based learning can empower students to engage in real￾world problems, fostering collaboration and innovation.

Additionally, integrating physical activity into the daily curriculum is vital. Schools should
offer ample opportunities for movement and play, allowing students to recharge and explore
their interests. This not only boosts physical health but also enhances cognitive function.
Lastly, it is essential for schools to create an environment that values individuality and
personal growth. Encouraging students to explore their passions and develop unique talents
will better prepare them for the diverse challenges of the future.

In conclusion, while schools have historically fulfilled their purpose of creating a compliant
workforce, the evolving demands of society necessitate a reevaluation of educational
objectives. By embracing creativity, promoting physical activity, and valuing individual
attributes, schools can better equip students for the complexities of the modern world.
By addressing these issues, we can ensure that schools not only achieve their original
purpose but also adapt to meet the needs of future generations, fostering a society of
thinkers and innovators rather than mere workers.

1. Rockefeller, J. D. (n.d.). *Quotes by John D. Rockefeller*. Retrieved from [Goodreads]
(https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/2335-i-always-tried-to-turn-every-disaster-into-an￾opportunity)
2. World Economic Forum. (2021). *The Future of Jobs Report*. Retrieved from [WEF]
(https://www.weforum.org/reports/the-future-of-jobs-report-2021)
3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). *Physical Activity Facts*. Retrieved
from [CDC](https://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/physicalactivity/facts.htm)
4. Educational Psychology Journal. (2019). *The Impact of Play on Cognitive and Creative
Development*. Retrieved from [Journal of Educational Psychology]
(https://www.apa.org/pubs/journals/edu/)