Education
What is education really for? Exams? Jobs? Citizenship? Flourishing?
In October 2025, The Philosophers’ Yard discussed what education is - and what it could be.
Why educate people?
Schooling shapes our lives—but what should it be aiming at? Is an educated person defined by their knowledge, skills, social contribution, or capacity to flourish? Dr Laura D’Olimpio from the University of Birmingham explored the competing purposes of education, from critical thinking and social justice to vocational training and citizenship.
The unspoken truths within education
What does it really take for young people to succeed? Matthew Popo, Founder of the Wethnk Group shined a light on the hidden barriers students face, asking whether our current system prioritises grades over personal growth. Drawing on his work in youth engagement and pastoral care, he argued for a more balanced, youth-centred approach.
Defending philosophical education
Is teaching philosophy in schools essential, or unnecessary? In this playful, thought-provoking session led by Grace Lockrobin, Co-Director of ‘Thoughtful’, we tested arguments for and against philosophy in education through live debates: Knowledge vs skills (a grudge match); Philosophy in a poly-crisis; and AI: friend or foe for philosophical thinking?