Teachers' Resources

Philosophy for Children

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Philosophy for Children (P4C) "Since 1996, a growing number of schools in Northumberland have started to include Philosophy For Children (P4C) in their curriculum. The initiative has gained positive results – particularly in terms of pupil self-esteem, confidence, understanding and language – in First, Middle and High schools throughout the County.

P4C is concerned with the development of a Community of Enquiry. Pupils and their teacher share a short story, picture or other stimulus. The children take time to think of their own philosophical questions. These are then discussed briefly – with one question being chosen by the group for deeper and more extensive discussion.

As the group meets more often, the questions get deeper and more thoughtful. The pupil’s discussion becomes more disciplined and focused yet, at the same time, more imaginative. They care about what others say but don’t accept easy answers. They develop the ability to recognise differences and explore them constructively. (Information on P4C courses at http://www.dialogueworks.co.uk (across the UK), and http://www.thinkingcap.org.uk (Yorkshire, north East, and Scotland)"

Extract taken from “The Big Picture in Northumberland - An introduction to Thinking Skills”.

For more on the Society for the Advancement of Philosophical Enquiry and Reflection in Education (SAPERE) visithttp://www.sapere.net