The Socratic Club - 8th June 2025

Another set of excellent Junior and Senior group debating sessions.

This week we began with a review of key body language skills and then moved to examining persuasive language techniques. Our newsround took in the Musk-Trump split, the role of Jordan in providing healthcare and aid during the conflict in the Middle East, the War in Ukraine and the role of drones, the Glacier/avalanche in Switzerland, Tariffs, and the Polish election.

Our unseen of the week featured an image from the 1944 D-Day Landings. We reflected on the sacrifice and bravery displayed and the impact on the world. The group recognised the extraordinary and historic nature of the successful plan.

For our warm-up we asked: ‘what subjects or hobbies would you like to pursue next term?’

-          This took in carpentry, fishing, swimming, table tennis, fencing, hockey, cooking, Duke of Edinburgh schemes, business studies, singing-choir work, debating and running

Debating motions took in the topics/questions:

·         This House would extend Forest School into primary and secondary level learning – some in the groups liked the idea, particularly linking to science, whilst others thought this impractical on a countrywide basis.

·         Should all news homes have solar panels installed?

·         Should all schools have residentials?

·         Following the Musk-Trump split, we turned to the motion ‘This House would not have unelected members of the public joining/contributing to governments/politics’

·         Should all school meals be free?

·         Should we all have to learn a musical instrument? Inspired by the creation of the world’s smallest violin.

It was great to see persuasive language skills being used throughout our set-piece debates.

Well done all!