Parents jump on homeschooling bandwagon in Wuhan

In Wuhan, seven parents have jumped on the homeschooling bandwagon, giving up the education system of the city. In an abandoned primary school, they hope their children will finally get away from the exam-oriented system.

This unique school is located at the foot of Mulan Mountain in Wuhan's Huangpi District.

The first floor of this two-story building has been transformed into several dormitories for the families, leaving the second floor purely functional for teaching.

Nine children aged 3 to 9 get up at 7:30 every morning and begin their studying by reciting ancient Chinese scripts like the Analects of Confucius.

The three above 7 years old have more advanced classes like math, calligraphy and English.

All courses are taught by the parents, most of whom have received high level education and some have even been abroad.

For the initiator, Mr Geng, he had no choice but to do this.

"My boy is 7 years old now and he has been in a public kindergarten for six months. I know the pros and cons of the current eduation system because I've been there too. I think we can prevent these cons by opening our own kindergarten."

He calls this educational resort a "community" which is intended to fully protect children's nature and let them grow up in a carefree environment.

Apart from 2 hours of studying, the children spend the majority of their day outside.

As to the children's future, like how to blend into society, the parents are not that worried.

"It's been hard for us to initiate this whole program, from meeting different families who are interested, to finding a suitable place. It's ok if this whole thing doesn't work out and the kids have to go back to the conventional schools. As long as we can take it with an easy mind. And of course we won't put pressure on our kids. "

The program was initiated only two months ago. Since this school has not been approved by the local educational department, Mr Geng cautiously rejected all filming requests.

The parents have also formed a homeschooling group online and their website is already attracting national attention.