Here at Bute, we recognise that every child has a point of view and a right to share it. Our Philosophy 4 Children (P4C) curriculum is designed to introduce ‘big ideas’ to children in a safe and age appropriate manner. The rich conversations that these classes elicit help to develop the students’ thinking and communication skills, boost their self-esteem and improve their academic attainment.
Rather than the teacher presenting the class with a question to be discussed in our philosophy sessions, the girls are shown a stimulus such as a story or a video. After identifying the major themes, they are encouraged to come up with philosophical questions – ones that are both interesting and contestable. Once the discussion begins, the teacher acts as a facilitator to ensure the discussion is focused and to help push for greater depth of thinking. Our P4C teachers encourage the girls to use the 4Cs – critical, creative, collaborative and caring thinking.
