Hugh Grant Blasts ‘Pathetic’ Rules at His Kids’ ‘Ridiculous Posh Private Schools’

Hugh Grant has recently expressed his frustration with what he calls “pathetic” rules at the private schools his children attend. The actor, known for his roles in films like “Paddington in Peru,” criticized the strict regulations in place at these “ridiculous posh private schools,” particularly regarding outdoor play. Grant’s comments were made during an event organized by Close Screens, Open Minds, a group advocating for phone-free schools. The event took place at the Knightsbridge School in London and aimed to discuss the impact of technology on education.

Grant, who is a father of five — Tabitha, 13, John, 12, Felix, 12, Lulu, 9, and Blue, 7, highlighted his concerns about schools increasingly relying on technology. He expressed disbelief at schools providing Chromebooks to every child, leading to an overreliance on screens for learning and homework. The actor lamented the shift towards digital dependence among children and stressed the need for a balance between technology and traditional forms of education.

Speaking at the event, Grant called for a reimagining of the education system, proposing the idea of a “hero school” that breaks away from existing norms. He suggested that schools should encourage more outdoor play, despite weather conditions, and foster a more hands-on approach to learning. Grant’s passionate plea for change stems from his belief that children need a more holistic and less screen-centric education to thrive in today’s world.

In addition to his concerns about technology in schools, Grant also addressed the broader issue of children’s immersion in the digital world. He described himself as an “angry parent” grappling with the challenges of raising kids in an era dominated by smartphones and social media. Teaming up with Dr. Jonathan Haidt, an American social pathologist, Grant advocated for banning smartphones and social media in classrooms for children under 16, emphasizing the need to create a healthier learning environment.

Despite his public persona, Grant is known for being relatively private about his family life. However, he has shared glimpses of his experience as a father, including the joys and struggles of parenting five children. Reflecting on his late start to fatherhood on a podcast, Grant humorously acknowledged the energy required to keep up with his youngest child at his age. Despite the challenges, he cherishes the moments of bonding with his children, such as their heartwarming welcome home hugs.

As a well-known figure in the entertainment industry, Grant’s candid remarks have sparked a conversation about the role of technology in education and the need for a balanced approach to learning. By voicing his concerns and advocating for change, Grant hopes to inspire a reevaluation of traditional educational practices and promote a more hands-on, outdoors-oriented approach to teaching. His dedication to creating a better learning environment for his children and future generations reflects a growing awareness of the impact of technology on education.