There is considerable evidence that class discussion is motivating, engaging and fosters a love of learning in pupils. In addition, discussion-based learning encourages positive attitudes towards other groups and results in pupils holding more democratic values. Pupils were given the opportunity to experience seminar-style study, giving them autonomy over their learning and helping them to articulate complex concepts with confidence.

Last term our pupils discussed topics such as:

• The Power of Words. Can language change the world? Can literature be a tool for social change?
• How does social inequality manifest itself in the urban landscape?
• Cities and Diversity – Should we want it? Can we plan for it?
• The implications of the Milgram Experiment for moral responsibility. 
• ‘Insiders or Outsiders.’ Discuss issues of immigration.
• ‘The Moral nature of Character: Exploring a neo-Aristotelian approach to character development. 
• The Consequences of the Nuremberg War Crimes Trial for international human rights law.
• Proto-Indo-European and the evolution of languages.
• Who was the most influential Prime Minister of Modern Britain?

Hear from our pupils: