On Day 3, the Master addressed Lower School pupils on the History of Political Thought. By starting with a comparison between Plato and Aristotle, he showed that there has always been a tension between idealism and realism; optimism and pessimism; freedom and security. Dr Spence ended with a clarion call for this generation of Alleynians to engage in an optimistic and inclusive politics, which will help guide society away from extremism. Year 11 pupils were treated to a talk on How Social Media is Changing the Nature of News and Politics by James Carson, Head of Social Media at The Telegraph and Mr O’Siochru gave a compelling talk on Machiavelli. However, the day will be most remembered for its performing Arts; a staff band performed an incredible montage of political rock music at lunchtime, the Niall Kelly band gave a memorable evening performance reciting politically inspired rock and folk music songs and A level Politics students attended the play Young Marx in the West End. On Day 4, Year 12 enjoyed a Question Time chaired by the BBC’s Justin Webb. In a relaxed yet combative atmosphere students were exposed to the political fault lines in UK politics as Richard Angell of the centrist Labour pressure group Progress clashed with Lord Butler and the Lib Dem’s Gail Kent and Conservative Siobhan Baillie more than held their own. At lunchtime Angus Hanton and Beth Jenkinson from the Intergenerational Foundation laid down the gauntlet to the assembled younger voters asking them to do more than just tweet their dissatisfaction to address the economic plight of young people. Lower School pupils learned about how sports teams were selected in Apartheid South Africa and Professor Anna Jackman gave a compelling lecture on drone warfare. A politically themed Middle School House Drama competition provided evening entertainment, with Grenville’s treatment of provocative subject matter securing first place with their excerpt from Black Watch. ‘It opened my eyes and made me realise my natural privilege over most people.’ Eddie on the Advocacy Academy’s workshop, The Power of the People.
The final day of Dulwich Political saw girls from JAGS triumph in the final of the week-long inter-school politically themed French debating competition. Mr Davidson gave a talk on the great age of migration, while Professor Dwayne Heard from Leeds University talked to students from schools across South London on his research into climate change, and the political challenges involved in coordinated global action. This was followed by a seminar with DC boys and students from partnership schools. Other events included a discussion on what fairness means according to Rawls at the meeting of the Philosophy circle. The Master rounded off the week with a standing-room-only affair in the Masters’ Library, with the concluding talk of the three-part lecture series on Political Philosophy. Students and staff not only learned about the ideas of John Stuart Mill, but were challenged to be brave enough to debate ideas openly, and resist the ‘safe space’ culture while acknowledging that the ‘harm principle’ needs to be recognised. All in all, an immensely successful week that was enjoyed by staff, parents and students. Watch this space for the special 400th Quatercentenary Dulwich Creative. ‘It was great how students’ views were incorporated into the debate and the adults responded to them.’ Tobias on Year 12 Question Time. Power of the People’. “This was the best free learning week so far as there was so much genuine involvement from boys.” Joseph, Year 13
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