Young Philosophers Training (YPT) offers an introduction to philosophy sessions, in which learners have the opportunity to explore the nature and value of philosophy by tackling a wide range of philosophical questions through structured discussion. Students develop thinking skills and explore arguments of famous philosophers, from the Ancient Greeks onwards. 

YPT sessions are delivered in six-weekly blocks, with the first block covering the following topics: what is philosophy; what is knowledge; the limits of knowledge; moral philosophy philosophy of perception; and freedom. After three blocks of six sessions, participants are eligible for the YPT bronze award (pass/merit/distinction), assessed on the basis of participation, communication, help with facilitation, and presentation skills. The ethos of the awards scheme is rooted in encouragement and support. 

Structure of sessions:

Brief introduction
Quick fire starter discussion, with participants contributing via chat-box or microphone
A tutor-led introduction to the topic covered
Break-out room discussions
A chat-box/mic discussion about the main philosophical question of the session
Final reflections on the discussion and next steps

Teaching Style:

Sessions will be delivered by Royal Institute of Philosophy tutor, and Director of The Thinker Hub CIC, Glenn Skelhorn. Learners will be given lots of opportunities to interact with the tutor and other participants. As a qualified advanced facilitator of philosophical discussion with children, the tutor employs a range of strategies to encourage collaborative discussion, whereby learners can feel comfortable and confident in expressing opinions and offering arguments. However, there is no coercion in making contributions, with some learners preferring to listen to discussion. In addition, regular question polls are posted to elicit feedback from all participants.

Any required experience or knowledge learners need?:

No experience or knowledge required to participate in this session.

Testimonials:

“What you are doing for these young people is fantastic. I would go so far as to say that this subject is more important than anything else my daughters are currently studying at the moment.” (feedback from parent of previous participant)

The growing list of schools and colleges that have benefitted from having a philosophy for teens course delivered to pupils/students in person, include the following:

Acklam Grange School, Middlesbrough; Altrincham Grammar School for Girls; Calderstones School, Liverpool; Cardinal Newman Catholic High School; Cedar Mount Academy Manchester; Cefn Saeson School, Neath; Chailey School, East Sussex; The Cooperative Academy, Manchester; Ditton Park Academy, Slough; The East Manchester Academy; Manchester; Hewens College, Heyes; High Storrs School, Sheffield; Holy Cross College, Bury; King George V College, Southport; Liverpool College; Maiden Erlegh School, Reading; Maghull High School, Liverpool; Sexey’s School, Bruton; Maricourt High School, Maghull; Parrenthorn High School, Prestwich; Red House School, Stockton-on-Tees; St. Cuthbert’s Catholic High School, Sutton; St. Gregory’s Catholic High School; St. Hilda’s School, Liverpool; St. Margaret’s Academy, Liverpool; St. Michael’s High School, Crosby; Wellington School, Altrincham.