Guests at the launch last week included Newham Young Mayor, Zuhayb Ahmed and executive member for children and young people, Councillor Quintin Peppiatt.

Thinking Allowed addresses the issue of how learners are encouraged to raise questions, share and refine their ideas in a philosophical community of enquiry. There is growing evidence that shows that philosophy in schools encourages children to be more curious about the world, more engaged in learning and more understanding of the opinions and feelings of others.

Comparative footage of children first filmed when they were in year 3, demonstrates the difference that weekly sessions of enquiry can make to what was an average mixed-ability and multilingual group. By the end of Key Stage 2, more than 50 per cent of the class achieved Level 5 in English reading and writing.

Ten-year-old Nawal, who is in Marimba class, said: "Philosophy's changed my lifestyle. Now I know that I can listen to other people's opinions, and I can say what I believe. It's made me more mature, and it's made me think a lot."

Dr Joanna Haynes, author of Children as Philosophers commented: "This is an invaluable resource. It provides a clear overview of the structure of a philosophy session, gives a taste of the remarkable growth made by children and teachers over time and illustrates its working across the whole school, from Foundation to Year 6."

Thinking Allowed is available for sale at £39.99 (including VAT)*

Thinking Allowed Trainer's Pack (Thinking Allowed plus two full length enquiries) £54.99 (inc. VAT)*
*Add £2.50 postage & packing for 1-2 items; £5.00 p&p for 3 or more items.

Available from Gallions Primary School, Warwall, Beckton, London E6 6WG
Email: orders@gallions.newham.sch.uk
Telephone: 020 7476 1252 and select option 3