Watch School Life

School Life is a documentary film from 2016 that captures the daily life of two veteran teachers, Amanda and John Leyden, who have dedicated over 40 years of their lives to teaching at Headfort School, Ireland's only primary-boarding school. Directed by Neasa Ní Chianáin and David Rane, the documentary offers a heartwarming portrayal of the school's students, teachers, and the unique environment that shapes their lives.

The movie presents the school as a self-contained, magical world where the children learn and play amid the endless beauty of the Irish countryside. The documentary follows the lives of several students who come from various backgrounds and who navigate the challenges of growing up in the school's insular community. Alongside the students and their experiences, the film delves into the daily lives of Amanda and John—they are presented as exceptional teachers who work tirelessly to ensure their students reach their full potential.

One of the most appealing aspects of School Life is the access that the filmmakers had to the school community. The documentary is shot from the point of view of the children rather than the adults, emphasizing their impressions of school life rather than the instructors' methods. Through moments of whimsy and wonder, the film captures a close-up look at the students' experiences at Headfort, highlighting their emotional highs and lows over the course of a school year.

As a part of its exploration of the children's lives, School Life provides insight into the various challenges they face. The students are seen grappling with everything from homesickness to the terrible loss of a beloved pet. Yet, the documentary is overwhelmingly positive, often preferring to show the joys and pleasures of the Headfort School experience.

However, School Life is not just about the kids. It's also about the teachers, who are showcased as caring and knowledgeable, committed to their work, and exceptional in their ability to spark a love of learning in their students. The documentary portrays Amanda and John as a dynamic duo: Amanda is a French and drama teacher, while John is an accomplished musician and photographer. The Leydens, who have been teaching at Headfort since the 1970s, have a deep connection to the school and its community. They're treated with reverence, and their passion for teaching is infectious.

Throughout the documentary, we see Amanda and John accomplishing all sorts of tasks in and out of the classroom. They guide students through everything from crucial academic assignments to the creation of the school's yearbook. They also don't shy away from difficult conversations during parent-teacher conferences or emotional breakdowns with students. What stands out is their commitment to ensuring every student is thriving, no matter where their interests or abilities lie. It's evident that the Leydens come from a different era of teaching; one that is rooted in personal connections, rather than adhering only to standardized curriculums.

In School Life, the Leydens are seen both teaching and performing. John, in particular, is shown educating students on the guitar and drums, preparing them for school concerts, and even playing for them during their leisure time. The musical performances are some of the most memorable parts of the film, and John's musical knowledge is impressive. The music, combined with the idyllic surroundings, provides a sense of nostalgia and a wistful longing for simpler times.

Overall, School Life is a beautiful, unique documentary film that is sure to kindle feelings of warmth and nostalgia in its viewers. It's an inspiring take on the role of teachers and the lives of children in a boarding school environment. The film finds a unique balance, showcasing the children's exploration of life along with the teachers' commitment and nurturing ways. The documentary is a charming and insightful look at a part of society that most of us never see. It is nostalgic, sentimental, and at times, heartwarming. Without a doubt, it's outstanding work that deserves attention.

School Life is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 39 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.4 and a MetaScore of 73.