165: GoFundMe book campaign for children is live - a podcast by Mark Taylor

The education system is broken and many young people are disillusioned with school. However, it is still an important part of our children's future. So, how do we support them to be creative, inspired and passionate about learning so they can fulfil their potential?

School is important because you need qualifications to access higher education and jobs. BUT, it is only part of the learning tapestry.

Some other key areas that support learning and growth include understanding: 

- Mentorship

- Masterminds

- Empathy, Kindness & Gratitude

- Being of service to people

- Communities

- Expert advice

- Recommended resources

- Online learning

- Your family & friends

As I watched our 3 children progress through school, I wanted to help change the dialogue about the essence of learning. I created the Education on Fire Podcast  and started interviewing people about their educational experience, what important advice they had been given, what advice they would give their younger self, and what resources had opened their eyes to a world of possibilities.

The stories of how these people are living life on their terms is fascinating. There seem to be common threads based around being yourself and following your passion and intuition, alongside an awareness of how to utilise the key areas of understanding mentioned above.

I have now interviewed over 250 people on my podcast, and I would like to compile some of these stories and the wealth of information shared, to create a book for children aged 11+.

I believe it has the power to change lives and children's perspective about learning. I want to demonstrate that we all have more control of our lives than we think, and once we have this knowledge, the world is our oyster. 

So let us join together as parents and educators to give our children what they need to thrive, be happy, successful and self assured.

Change the disillusionment to excitement, clarity and positive intention!

To create this book I need to cover these costs:

- Transcriptions - £2500

- Editor - £3100

- Designer - £1200

- Formating - £1250

- Media/marketing - £2750

Total - £10,800

Timeline

I would like to start creating this book as soon as possible. I would like to make it available for teachers to give to their pupils as an end of year gift in July 2021.

I believe this goal is achievable if I have all the funds in place by December 31st 2020. 

I wish more of this type of learning was taught in schools, and I believe in a child focused education. I believe in it so much that I am vice chair of National Association for Primary Education. The political wheels turn slowly however, and our children need support and encouragement NOW! 

 My Story

I was lucky enough to find my passion at an early age. I am now a professional percussionist and music educator, having attended Trinity College of Music, and had the opportunity to perform with many world class orchestras and organisations.  English National Ballet, Royal...