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Education

  • Birmingham and Midland Institute 9 Margaret Street Birmingham, England, B3 3BS United Kingdom (map)

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.

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.

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.

In a 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?

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16 October

Political Authority
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4 November

What is Practice?