Philosophy Matters / Philosophy for Children Virtual Conference

Anna McDermott, BPPA Events Coordinator (Queen's University Belfast), put together a wonderful event last week focused on Philosophy for Children. On-demand video recordings of the two presentations are available below.

Event Details:

Date: April 16th, 2025

Key Themes and Discussion Topics:

- The role of philosophy in school curriculums

- The power of philosophy in education

- Strategies for engaging students of all ages in philosophical thinking

- Applying Philosophy for Children principles in higher education and the workplace

- Encouraging wider participation in philosophy

Panel One: Current Projects in Philosophy for Children:

Suzanne Whitten (Critical Minds Club Project and Lecturer of Philosophy at Queen’s University Belfast)

David Rane (Guth Gafa, producer of ‘Young Plato’)

Stefania Gualberti (Thinking Changes Project)

Neasa Ni Chianain (Director of 'Young Plato')

Panel Discussion Two: Philosophy Facilitation and How to Engage Children in Philosophy:

Jason Buckley (The Philosophy Man)

Jeremy Watkins (Lecturer of Philosophy at Queen’s University Belfast)

Elizabeth Mackintosh (Lecturer at University of Winchester and Fellow at Oxford Interfaith Forum at University of Oxford)

Peter Worley (The If Man and Philosophy Foundation)

Simon Brennan (Lecturer of Philosophy and Education at Mary Immaculate College)

Philosophy is not just for philosophers. It belongs in classrooms, homes, and playgrounds too. This event celebrates the growing movement that sees children as philosophers in their own right. If you’re passionate about philosophy, education, or the future of thinking, this is an event you won’t want to miss. Whether you're an educator, student, or simply curious, we welcome you to join the discussion.- Anna McDermott, Event Organiser.

Panel 1 Discussion

Panel 2 Discussion