These pages have been put together largely in response to requests for details of, and links to, books and articles on education and community action. One or two people have also asked about research projects, etc.
research
Tony Jeffs and I have been conducting research for a new book that explores the current environments in which educators operate. In particular, we focus on the fundamental mistakes made by policymakers, academics, and those charged with developing practice in schools, colleges, and local communities. Much like Tomison’s Academy (pictured above), there is a danger of dereliction. We argue that it is necessary to re-imagine education and develop alternative approaches to schooling, informal education, and supporting community-led initiatives.
Click for details of previous projects.
recent articles
Hannah More: Sunday schools and education, writing and literacy, ending slavery and setting the scene for youth work. Hannah More was initially famous for her playwriting and involvement in ‘blue stocking’ circles. Later, her evangelicalism led her to philanthropy, writing popular religious tracts and pioneering work around Sunday schools and the end of slavery. Here, we examine these achievements and her contribution to the development of work with young people. (Major update: July 2026)
What is informal education? This piece explores its nature, practice and purpose. [Updated April 2026]
Click for a listing of articles.
books etc
Many of the books that I have been involved with have been digitised and are available online. Click for books, and please contact me if you experience any issues with downloads. You can also access some books and many articles via infed.org (the encyclopedia of pedagogy and informal education).
other projects
Walks: The two London walks featured here use Charles Booth’s famous poverty maps (1898-9), which, thanks to the London School of Economics, can be viewed and compared to a contemporary street map. They also draw on local knowledge – I have lived in both areas. Directions and discussion of the various places to look out for can also be accessed. One Walk explores informal education. It is based around The Strand, Covent Garden, Trafalgar Square, Soho and Oxford Street. The other focuses on social action. Starting close to Tower Bridge, it follows the River Thames eastwards to Rotherhithe. You can walk them for real or virtually.
Both walks were updated in September/October 2025 and are available via infed.org. You can also download PDF versions by clicking here.
Exploring South Ronaldsay and Buirray: For those venturing beyond mainland Scotland, a new site offers insights into life on these islands. It examines the last 13,000 years, featuring various archaeological sites, churches, schools, listed buildings, and walks and other activities to enjoy. Look out, in particular, for recently added listening walks and a new page on the history of Burray and South Ronaldsay, which now covers 1472-1799 (February 2026). Exploring South Ronaldsay
about me
Click for brief details of my work.
Opening image: Photo of Tomison’s Academy in South Ronaldsay by MKS