When she's not doing movies or winning Oscar awards, Hollywood actress Tilda Swinton, 54, manages a school in Scotland. But it is not just any school; it's an institution that doesn't rely on tests or grades to gauge the students' abilities. It's also the school that her teenage twin boy and girl, Xavier and Honor, attend.
In 2013, the "Grand Budapest Hotel" actress founded the Drumduan Upper School in Moray, Scotland along with another concerned parent, who felt that the choices for their children when it comes to education have been lacking. The school's system is based on the famous Steiner education, which doesn't require the kids to take tests or aim for good grades, simply because these aren't any. Her kids used to attend a different Steiner school before studying in Drumduan. They will become part of the first batch of graduates of their mother's institution.
"My children are now 17, and they will go through this school without any tests at any time, so it's incredibly art-based, practical learning. For example, they learn their science by building a Canadian canoe, or making a knife, or caramelizing onions. And they're all happy 17-year-olds. I can't believe it - happy and inspired," Tilda said via The Guardian.
Although there is also emphasis given when it comes to academics, the students are encouraged to pursue artistic or athletic endeavors more. The kids also regularly go to beaches and forests to learn better outdoors. They are taught skills that aren't taught in traditional forms of learning, such as boatbuilding or canoeing, according to the Telegraph.
However, the system is not without its controversies as there have been concerns raised as to whether or not children who attend this type of curriculum can cope well at the university or college level.
As The Guardian report has uncovered, a similar academy, the Acorn School in Gloucestershire, has had no problems with its students applying for college. Authorities at the Acorn School said not one of their graduates failed to secure a spot at their desired university. Some are even offered college spots, which is the norm for those who are strictly schooled traditionally.
In Tilda's case, she can always use her connections so that her twins can have internships, according to Page Six. But for now, she loves the idea that her kids are "chillaxing" while learning. So many kids forget to love learning this way these days.
