BUILDING CONSENSUS THROUGH DEBATE

Grounding the next generation in the historical tradition of free speech and the art of principled argument

OUR WORKSHOPS

Our suite of programmes and workshops equips students and young people with the skills of constructive debate and active engagement across diverse viewpoints.

Through interactive and collaborative workshops, participants learn to navigate complex discussions and sharpen the rhetorical skills that will allow them to effectively navigate contemporary issues.

Starter Workshop

Sale Price: £150.00

Original Price: £300.00

This workshop gives students a hands-on taste of structured debate and critical thinking. In 90 minutes, participants will learn how to:

  • Build strong arguments using claims, reasoning, and evidence

  • Engage in respectful discussion and respond to opposing views

  • Experience a guided mini-debate with facilitated feedback

  • Explore how freedom of expression works in UK law and society

This session inspires curiosity and builds confidence in reasoning, debate, and public speaking, making it an engaging introduction for students.

Half-day workshop

Sale Price: £290.00

Original Price: £600.00

Over 3 hours, students expand their debate and argument skills through structured exercises, case studies, and a formal debate simulation. Participants will:

  • Develop advanced argument skills and evaluate evidence critically

  • Explore real-world scenarios balancing competing rights and responsibilities

  • Take part in team debates with feedback on logic, persuasion, and collaboration

  • Reflect on constructive disagreement and responsible public engagement

Ideal for enrichment days, sixth formers, or debate societies wanting a more in-depth experience.

4-Week Programme

Sale Price: £600.00

Original Price: £1,000.00

This four-session programme focuses on parliamentary-style debate, with every session featuring a live debate. Participants will develop the following skills:

  • Robust case-building by deconstructing motions and identifying logical fallacies.

  • Polished delivery through persuasive tone and strategic rebuttals.

  • Intellectual flexibility by rotating through Government and Opposition roles.

  • Clearer expression through peer review and direct facilitator feedback.

These workshops equip students to navigate complex ideas and speak with authority in academic and social settings.

OUR METHODOLOGY

Evidence-Based Research and Logic: Our methodology is grounded in rigorous academic research and contemporary evidence-based practices. We move beyond simple conversation to equip participants with the logical frameworks required to structure sound arguments. This commitment to intellectual integrity ensures that every workshop is an exercise in high-level reasoning rather than mere opinion-sharing.

Truth-Seeking and Informed Disagreement: At the heart of our programmes is a commitment to shared inquiry, where we use disagreement as a practical tool to uncover the truth. Participants learn to navigate complex topics through informed discourse, creating an environment where challenging ideas are interrogated with both courage and civility.

Historical and Philosophical Foundation: We provide a deep dive into the history of debate and the British free speech tradition. By grounding contemporary discussion in philosophical history, participants learn to appreciate the evolution of democratic discourse. This historical lens connects classical principles of logic and liberty with modern-day societal challenges to enhance student education.

Outcome-Driven Skill Development: Every workshop is structured to produce tangible results, focusing on the development of a diverse and durable skill set. From mastering rhetorical precision to building psychological resilience in difficult conversations, our training is outcome-oriented. We ensure participants leave with the practical ability to lead and engage in principled dialogue throughout their lives.

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FAQ

  • Traditional debate often focuses on winning an argument through performance and rhetoric. Consensus prioritises shared inquiry and synthesis, teaching students how to disagree constructively to uncover truth and find common ground.

  • Yes. Our programmes are strictly non-partisan and evidence-based. We do not advocate for specific political positions; instead, we provide the logical and philosophical tools students need to evaluate diverse perspectives for themselves.

  • Our workshops directly support the PSHE and Citizenship curriculum by promoting British values, critical thinking, and social responsibility. We help schools meet requirements for developing respectful dialogue and active citizenship.

  • We use a structured, objective framework that focuses on the mechanics of argumentation rather than personal opinion. By establishing clear ground rules for civil discourse, we ensure that challenging topics are discussed with intellectual rigour and mutual respect.

  • Absolutely. Our materials are tailored to suit the specific needs of each cohort, from introductory sessions for younger students to advanced philosophical deep dives for sixth-formers and university applicants.

  • Students develop a diverse skill set including rhetorical precision, logical reasoning, and psychological resilience. These tools allow them to navigate complex conversations with poise and clarity.

  • No prior experience is necessary. Our methodology is designed to be accessible to all students, regardless of their starting point, by breaking down complex concepts into practical, usable skills.

  • Admissions tutors and employers highly value the ability to think critically and communicate effectively. Our programmes demonstrate a student’s capacity for high-level analytical thought and their ability to work collaboratively in professional environments.

  • Starter Workshops provide a high-impact introduction to the basics of reasoned discourse. Half-Day Workshops allow for a deeper dive into historical contexts and more intensive practical exercises to solidify skill development.

  • Yes. We provide expertly formatted digital guides and resources that summarise key principles of argumentation and the history of free speech, ensuring the learning continues beyond the workshop.

  • Schools can book directly through our website contact form. We will then arrange a consultation to tailor the programme dates and content to your specific requirements and academic calendar.

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