Andreas Primary School has become the first in the Island to win an award for its Philosophy for Children (P4C) work.

P4C is an approach to learning founded by Professor Matthew Lipman and practised in 60 countries. It develops children’s ability to become better thinkers.

The Society for the Advancement of Philosophical Enquiry and Reflection in Education (SAPERE) has awarded Andreas its bronze award, recognising the school’s commitment to establishing the P4C approach to learning.

Rachel Ashley, Headteacher, said: ‘We are very proud to be one of a small but growing group of only 54 schools in the British Isles to be recognised with the bronze award.

‘We have run P4C sessions in all our classes since 2013. Sessions involve teachers providing a stimulus, such as a book, poem, picture, artefact or piece of music, which is used to spark discussion and help children pose questions.

‘The teacher leads a discussion that helps children explore and deepen their thinking in response to the questions raised.

‘It is well documented that P4C has an impact on children’s cognitive, social and emotional development. Our experience at Andreas has shown that P4C has helped to make the children more co-operative, creative, tolerant and respectful of differing viewpoints.’

Making the award, SAPERE said P4C was firmly embedded at the school, led by an enthusiastic and committed teacher, Steph Cottier. The school had provided excellent evidence of the progress made by pupils using P4C.

Geoff Moorcroft, Director of Education, said: ‘P4C is a demanding but rewarding way to approach the curriculum that has been proven to encourage the development of intellectual, communication and social skills.

‘We encourage our primaries to adopt it and, locally, offer SAPERE training which a growing number take up.

‘I’m delighted that Andreas’ work in this area has been recognised by SAPERE and that the school is routinely offering such rich, vibrant and challenging opportunities for learning for its pupils. The award is testament to the school’s vision.’

The 114-pupil school can now use the SAPERE logo on its website and letterheads and can strive for a silver award, held by only 12 schools, and gold, held by just four.

Photo - Andreas pupils with Headteacher Rachel Ashley.