Introducing P4C

Philosophy for Children (P4C) is a classroom method which helps to improve pupils’ critical thinking skills and their ability to work co-operatively. It fosters an atmosphere of open, creative discussion among pupils of all ages, and its success has been noted in many school inspection reports and academic studies.

P4C was originally devised as a programme for 6-16 year olds by Professor Matthew Lipman in the United States. A useful summary of its history and effectiveness can be found at www.sapere.org.uk/content/index.aspx?id=46.

P4C is now used in a variety of forms throughout the world. In the UK, SAPERE is perhaps the organisation best known for promoting the method. It co-ordinates a three-level professional training programme to maintain high standards.

Our trainer, Martin Pollard, is accredited by SAPERE to deliver Level 1 courses. His approach is to combine P4C with requirements of the curriculum in Wales such as Thinking Skills, PSE and ESDGC.