Second Bath Schools Philosothon

This year the event was held at King Edward's School in Bath and attended by schools from the local area.

Aims

To support communication skills, engagement and constructive relationships between pupils from schools across Bath. 

To provide shared enrichment activities for pupils.

Critical factors for success include continued support from the range of schools in attending and hosting the event. Next year the event will be hosted by Ralph Allen School. 

Background

This began as a Monkton partnership initiative in 2022 as a post-covid opportunity to build confidence, communication and pupil interaction across schools.

Following the event, feedback was sought and there was a recognition by all participants of the benefits of doing subsequent events on an annual basis.

Resources

Critical to the success of this initiative is the willingness of Bath schools, both independent and state, to host events on a rolling basis, and to support them by bringing teams of pupils to compete. 

The event requires the use of multiple venues for small group discussion, as well as a large communal area and the ability to serve refreshments and an evening meal. It uses a staff team of judges, organisers and supervisors, and lasts for 3 hours in total. This year, the cost of the event as well as the organisational input was all provided by King Edward's School, with some advisory and logistical support from Monkton.

Impact

50 pupils took part and benefited from a wide range of topics and debates. Pupils engaged in substantive conversations, developed skills relating to listening, critical thinking, justifying arguments, leadership and negotiation. 

Pupil Involvement

Pupils were aged between 13 - 18.

Frequency

This is an annual event which we hope to continue for as long as the pupils benefit.