While the government has pledged billions on improving schooling, parents want facilities that bring down the barriers between private and public school. The research, released as Edge launches its Academies, identifies parents’ vision for schools to have kitchens for teaching (63 per cent), computers in every classroom (61 per cent), a swimming pool (45 per cent), a theatre (25 per cent) and a recording studio – on the wish list for 19 per cent.

Importantly it seems parents want more than just the typical private school provision. As well as swimming pools and theatres, the majority (79 per cent) believe every new school should have specialist resource for vocational subjects with 62 per cent saying they would like to see business units on site where children can gain first-hand experience of enterprise.

When asked what they would like included in Government initiatives, two thirds (60 per cent) want to see better links with employers and the community, 59 per cent more practical courses and 52 per cent more work experience.

The study reveals more than half of parents (57 per cent) say they support the programme to rebuild or renew virtually every secondary school in England. Edge is trailblazing their schools for the future by sponsoring two new Academies; The Bulwell Academy, Nottingham and Milton Keynes Academy which open next week. As well as state of the art facilities including business hubs, they promise all students will have practical learning built into the curriculum and will study some form of vocational course at 14.

Supporting the ethos of the Edge academies, two thirds of parents (68 per cent) would like to see their child’s school favour academic and vocational learning equally, as currently 41 per cent of parents feel their child’s school favours academic study. In addition, 61 per cent of parents feel there is too much pressure for young people to go to university.

Andy Powell, Chief Executive of Edge said:
“Parents quite rightly want the best learning environment for their children and that includes facilities that in the past have only been available in the country’s private schools. If designed and managed correctly, with a clear vision and with dedicated staff and sponsors, new build academies offer an opportunity to give pupils the type of learning they need using the right facilities.

“We hope that the Edge academies will provide a formula for others to learn from. We see them as leading the way as they recognise there are many paths to success and academic study alongside practical and vocational learning is the best combination for young people.”

Edge is campaigning for change and has produced its Six Steps to Change Manifesto, which believes that students on practical and vocational courses should be taught in specialist facilities or specialist institutions and by appropriately experienced staff. To ensure the need for these changes is recognised we are inviting everyone to ‘join the revolution’ and to have their say on education by adding their voice to the movement at www.edge.co.uk/revolution.

Notes to editors

Research was carried out by PCP. Total sample size was 739 parents of 7 to 16 year olds currently attending state school in England. Fieldwork was undertaken between 10th to 14th August 2009. The survey was carried out online. The figures are representative of parents of 7 to 16 year olds in England.