82. Why the School System Isn't Working

Why are so many parents, teachers and young people questioning the school system? Around the world, more families are wondering whether conventional education is still meeting the needs of today's children. Rising levels of anxiety, burnout and disengagement have led many people to ask deeper questions about what school is designed to do—and whether it prepares young people for the world they're actually growing up in. In this episode, we take a thoughtful look at the history of modern schooling, why it was originally created, and how many of its underlying assumptions continue to shape education today. We also explore why one-size-fits-all learning struggles to honour children's individuality, why relationships matter more than standardization, and what becomes possible when we begin imagining education differently. This isn't about blaming parents or teachers. It's an invitation to question the system itself with curiosity, compassion and hope. Some of the questions and ideas we discuss include: Why the modern school system was originally created How standardized education shapes children's experience of learning Why so many young people are struggling with anxiety, burnout and disengagement The difference between preparing children for tests and preparing them for life Why relationships are at the heart of meaningful education How families can begin questioning school while supporting their children in the present Looking for support as you navigate learning outside school? Explore free masterclasses, resources, and a community of parents asking similar questions → Join UN-SKOOL Wondering what keeps shaping your reactions when parenting gets hard? → Discover Your Parenting Archetype Have a parenting, homeschooling, or unschooling question? Send it to us and we may answer it in an upcoming newsletter: → Dear Sari & Becka → Follow us on Instagram and come hang out with us between episodes. → Check out our website and explore more of our work, resources, and support. Radical Learning Talks was named the #2 Democratic Education Podcast to Listen to in 2026 by FeedSpot. See the full list