Inside you'll find 90 schools and groups across the UK, from woodland kindergartens and Forest School settings to Waldorf, Steiner and Montessori schools, self-directed learning communities, and home education provision. Whatever stage you're at, whether you're just starting to explore the alternatives or ready to make a change, this guide is designed to make that journey easier.
What's inside
- 90 schools and groups, organised by region, covering the South East, London, South West, East, Central, North East, North West, Wales, Scotland and Ireland
- In-depth interviews with New Forest Small School on play, nurture and why a gentle start matters, and Brockwood Park School on learning without fear, free of comparison and exam pressure
- Featured profiles of schools including Annan The Froebel School, Michael Hall Waldorf School, The Montessori Place, The King Alfred, St Christopher School, Waldorf Cambridge, Sands School, Wildwood Nature School and Ruskin Mill Trust's specialist provision
Every setting has been chosen because it nurtures a love of the natural world, a sense of community, and a belief that childhood deserves space to play, wonder and grow at its own pace.
It's a fully interactive guide too, so every website address is clickable, making it easy to head straight to the school or group that catches your eye.
Download your copy
The guide is completely free. Simply click below to download your copy and start exploring.
Share it with someone who needs it
If you know a parent weighing up their options, or a home educator looking for local groups, please share this guide. The more families who find their way to a setting that fits, the better.
The Green Parent's Alternative Schools Guide is published annually. Know a school or group that should feature next year? Get in touch at features@thegreenparent.co.uk
You can find a print version of the guide inside our summer 2026 edition of The Green Parent magazine available now!
