Topical Talk and KCSP

Empowering Young Voices Through Topical Talk

At Kent Catholic Schools' Partnership, we are committed to ensuring that every child develops the confidence, knowledge and skills needed to flourish in an ever-changing world. As part of this commitment, we are proud to partner with The Economist Educational Foundation and its innovative Topical Talk programme.

During the 2025-26 academic year, more than 1,300 pupils and over 30 teachers from across our schools took part in Topical Talk, representing our highest level of engagement with the programme to date. Through structured discussions and enquiry-based learning, pupils strengthened their oracy, critical thinking and media literacy skills while exploring complex and relevant global issues.

From examining topics such as international aid, technology, democracy and the role of the media, to exchanging ideas with young people from more than 25 countries around the world, pupils demonstrated curiosity, respect and a genuine willingness to consider different perspectives. The programme has helped them develop the confidence to express their views, listen thoughtfully to others and participate in informed, balanced discussion.

Influencing National Thinking

The success of Topical Talk across our schools, together with our Trust's long-standing commitment to developing pupils' oracy, critical thinking and problem-solving skills, has also attracted national recognition. As a result, our CEO was invited to join a national commission led by The Economist Educational Foundation and chaired by educationalist Sam Freedman.

The commission is examining the role of current affairs education in schools and exploring whether pupils and staff across both primary and secondary education would benefit from more frequent opportunities to discuss, debate and develop their understanding of contemporary issues. Its work seeks to understand how engagement with current affairs can support the development of informed, thoughtful and active citizens.

Schools from across the country have contributed to this important work through surveys, focus groups and roundtable discussions, providing valuable insights into current practice and the potential impact of a greater emphasis on current affairs education in schools.

The commission's recommendations have not yet been finalised and will be informed by a careful review of all the evidence gathered. We look forward to seeing how this important work may help shape future thinking about education, civic engagement and the preparation of young people for life in modern Britain.

"What a privilege it is to be involved in such interesting and important research. I look forward to sharing the outcomes in due course." (Annemarie Whittle CEO KCSP)

Celebrating the Impact

This Topical Talk Highlights Magazine celebrates the impact of the programme across our Trust through pupil reflections, teacher testimonials and inspiring school case studies. It demonstrates how high-quality classroom discussion can enrich learning, enhance communication skills and support academic achievement, while nurturing active, informed and responsible citizens.

Above all, the magazine reflects our shared commitment to giving every child a voice and preparing them to engage positively with the world around them, guided by our Catholic values.

Read the full Topical Talk Highlights Magazine below: