In the early 20th century, Charlotte Mason sought to revolutionise British education with her philosophy of A Liberal Education for All, offering every child a rich and broad curriculum that nourished both mind and spirit. This volume tells the captivating story of how Mason's ideas were brought to life, from the coal-mining villages of Bradford to the rural schools of Gloucestershire.
Through a series of revealing letters between Mason and her closest collaborators, John Thorley and J. Carroll Smith explore the bold achievements of this ambitious movement. Educators like Lienie Steinthal and Horace Household played pivotal roles in implementing Mason's methods in local schools, paving the way for what would become a global movement. Thorley, a former principal of Charlotte Mason College, and Smith, an experienced educator, offer expert commentary on the personal relationships and the bureaucratic, political, and financial challenges overcome to ensure the lasting impact of Mason's vision.
A Liberal Education for All is a compelling read for educators, historians, and anyone interested in the history of educational reform and the vibrant legacy of Charlotte Mason's ideas, which continue to inspire schools and homeschoolers around the world today through organisations such as the Charlotte Mason Institute.
ABOUT THE AUTHORS:
John Thorley, MA, PhD (Durham and Hull Universities), was the final president of Charlotte Mason College, an independent institution validated by Lancaster University. He was also the original organizer of the Charlotte Mason and Parents' National Education Union archives.
J. Carroll Smith, MS, EdD (East Carolina University and Virginia Tech), is the founder of the Charlotte Mason Institute and a retired Associate Professor of Education. He lives in Roanoke, VA, where he supports Charlotte Mason Institute projects and enjoys facetiming with his grandchildren.