Background
OneSchool Global schools are run by local Exclusive Christian Brethren communities. These schools cater primarily for secondary-aged pupils. These schools are supported by the local faith communities. Teachers and headteachers are generally not members of the Exclusive Brethren community.
Information and communication technology (ICT) developments have brought about a recent significant change to the curriculum. Schools are connected to a network run by the Focus Learning Trust and can use software licensed by the Trust. They may also make use of video conferencing to other OneSchool Global schools to extend opportunities within the curriculum. Pupils may not have access to television, radio or electronic media at home.
Curriculum
Although pupils are often taught together, in lessons such as physical education, games, dance or swimming pupils tend to be taught in separate gender groups. There is also a more traditional approach to technology, with the emphasis being on practical subjects such as cookery, needlework and woodwork.
The community traditionally avoided information communication technology, but this is now more widely in use for subjects such as business studies. As the Exclusive Brethren view the media as generally harmful, access to the internet is strictly controlled.
Brethren schools often start early and finish earlier than is usual in other schools. While some schools provide lunch time clubs there are no after school clubs because of the belief that children need to spend as much time as possible with the family. Most Brethren families attend an evening meeting each day and children also travel significant distances to get to school.
When talking to the children, avoid referring to subjects that are linked to the television or popular culture, the internet or media in general. Children may not have access to television, radio or internet at home.
Etiquette
Female inspectors should consider wearing skirts rather than trousers and dress according to what the schools would consider modest.
These schools may offer hospitality and refreshments but will generally expect inspectors to consume it away from members of the community, as Exclusive Brethren do not eat or drink with those outside their fellowship. Most schools are small and often do not serve food on the premises: children bring packed lunches from home and unlike other inspections it may not be appropriate to disturb them during mealtimes or engage the children in discussion. Inspectors should bring their own lunch. Very few staff are members of the Exclusive Brethren community, so it may be possible to talk to the headteacher or other staff at coffee or lunchtime.
Many girls in the Exclusive Brethren community do not cut their hair and usually wear a head scarf or ‘token’. Boys do not wear ties.