Expert by experience

Learning in and beyond school

AUTHORS

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Cadhla O’Sullivan
1 PhD, Research Fellow * ORCID logo

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Sharon Bessell
1 PhD, Professor and Director ORCID logo

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Bob

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Crescent Moon

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Orange Sharpie

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Sam

AFFILIATIONS

1 Crawford School of Public Policy, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2600, Australia

ACCEPTED: 20 November 2025


Early abstract

This article is co-authored by children and adults, with children taking the lead based on their deep knowledge and daily experience of learning. School is important to learning, and is a place to learn how to read, write and do maths. It is also a place to learn to get along with others. School helps people get a job. There are also lots of things that children need to learn outside of school, including how to look after ourselves. Children need to learn from people who take care to have positive interactions with children and to treat us with respect. Children also learn from each other, and friendships and kindness are important. Children need adults to teach us in ways that are fun, make sure we are safe, and support us to learn and achieve our dreams.