1. Thought for the week
Preventing extremism and radicalisation through meaningful conversation:
How to get the whole school discussing world events

2. Do you know who this is and why he has been in the news lately?

3. Donald Trump is an American businessman who is hoping to become the next president of the USA.
He is currently the favourite to become the Republican Party candidate but many of his controversial views have caused anger in the United States and the rest of the world.
On Monday 18th January, MPs debated whether Trump should be banned from the UK.
Click here to find out more about the debate

4. Should everyone have the right to free speech?
Discuss:
Should everyone have the right to free speech?
Option 2

5. Why are many people attracted to extreme views?
Discuss:
Why are many people attracted to extreme views?
Option 2

6. What is the best way to challenge ideas we don’t agree with?
Discuss:
What is the best way to challenge ideas we don’t agree with?
Option 2

7. Key Principles…
We live and learn in a diverse, multicultural community. It is vital that our students are able to understand and respect other people’s beliefs.
Young people are exposed to a wide range of controversial material through the media and start to form their own opinions but have often not yet developed the skills to be critical about what they see.
The best way to overcome prejudice is to be able to explore and challenge opposing views to our own.
Meaningful discussion will only be effective as part of a strong school ethos, where staff and students are open and prepared to challenge and be challenged. Thought for the week is just one artefact of this.

8. Thought for the Week – The practicalities
Weekly activity shared with all students via tutor time
Relevant and engaging topic – usually related to current affairs – which does not shy away from challenging themes.
Accessible and thought provoking stimulus
Range of possible discussion avenues proposed
Appropriate follow-up activities where relevant
Training for staff and support always available
Student leadership
Expand upon each of these points

9. Thought for the Week – So far this year…
January
New year’s resolutions
The power of social media
Donald Trump – challenging extreme views
Random acts of kindness
February
Shirley Chisolm – first black woman to run for US president (in 1972!)
Safer Internet Day
You have as many hours in the day as Beyoncé
The global challenge of illiteracy
International Women’s Day – do we still need it?
March
Positive body image – removing mirrors. Followed up with reflection next week
April
Child killers – who is responsible?
Imagine the possibilities – are there any limits on ambition?
Shakespeare’s birthday – do actions speak louder than words?
Expand upon each of these points

10. Thought for the Week – Next Steps
Further development of student leadership
More opportunities for vertical collaboration – changes to our pastoral structures
Compulsory training for all new staff
Development of coaching amongst staff and students
Expand upon each of these points

11. Any questions?