Spontaneous, natural play should not be undermined or redirected by adults into a learning experience for children. Play belongs to the child. To allow children to experience the full range of feelings, free from the judgement and intervention of an adult. Freedom to make decisions always involves risk and requires the possibility of negative outcomes. Apparently negative consequences such as boredom, stress, anger, disappointment and failure are a necessary part of individual development.
All individuals create their own set of values based on the community within which they live.
Summerhill is a community that takes responsibility for itself. Problems are discussed and resolved through openness, democracy and social action. All members of the community, adults and children, irrespective of age, are equal in terms of this process. Summerhill's boarding fees range from 5300 to 6550 depending on the ages of the students. Summerhill is world-renowned.