World Schools' Conference

Teenagers from schools across Bristol took part in this inaugural event to debate and discuss causes and possible solutions to some of the world’s most pressing social, economic and political challenges.

Devised, organised and hosted by Redmaids' High, dozens of Sixth Formers from fellow Bristol schools heard from experts on various subjects, including the melting polar regions, plastics pollution, terrorism and human rights, and nature conservation.

It began with a keynote address by Andy Fletcher, founder of not-for-profit organisation Life, the Universe and Everything Inc who laid out the need for critical thinking and not simply accepting things at face value.

Led by Redmaids’ High Assistant Headteacher, Jon Cooper, the event was designed to enable Year 12 students to develop their international understanding at a time of extensive global challenge and change.

Aims

To involve young adults in stimulated and intellectual debate on important world issues, enhancing their critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Background

Under Redmaids' High School's 'Tomorrow's World' themed conferences, we developed this new event specifically for students in Year 12.

Resources

School teaching and support staff were involved in organising the event which took place at Redmaids' High School.

Its success depended on experts volunteering their time to come and speak at the event, either to give a keynote address or to run a workshop - or both.

 

Impact

Positive feedback to the inaugural event has been received from visiting teachers and speakers.

Pupil Involvement

Year 12 students - aged 17, girls and boys