Year 13 PSHE Ideologies Day

On Friday 1st December we held Y13’s Ideologies Day. In the morning we invited representatives from the main religious groups in Gravesham and in the afternoon we invited the main political parties to attend a husting-style event. Students were encouraged to think of questions to put to the panel to understand different viewpoints. The purpose of the day was to build tolerance and respect for different views and ideologies, whilst also giving students an opportunity to reflect on their own beliefs. This day directly links to two of the Pillars of Gravesend Grammar School: respect and exploration. The PSHE days we hold are an important part of the school vision—we want to help develop well-rounded students ready for life beyond school.

Ella Cox 13RMT writes: PSHE day with the local politicians from each party gave Year 13 an insight into politics and issues that affect us more personally. We were able to ask questions and challenge each politician from each party which was great for students who take politics but also everyone else as it’s something different that they might have an interest in. I thoroughly enjoyed this session and I’m sure many students did too. The ability to ask questions which were important to us as we are the future, and we were all intrigued in how their policies would benefit us. Being able to challenge the politicians is an enjoyable moment as it makes them think quickly on their feet and reveal the true ways of politicians. I am hoping to study politics at a further level, so this was a good way for me to explore the ways of politics and politicians themselves. It also made me think more deeply about my future and if the next government would truly help me in the cost of living crisis we are in. I really enjoyed this session as it is something I am deeply interested in and it definitely widened my understanding of the politics at a world and local level too.

Our thanks to the politicians and religious groups who supported the sessions:

Conservative – Danny Nicklen

Green - Garry Turner

Lib Dem – Richard Streatfield

Labour - Cllr Shane Mochrie-Cox & Dr Lauren Sullivan

Gravesend Central Mosque

St John’s Catholic Church

St Peter & St Paul’s Church

Gravesend Gurdwara