ANTI-FRAGILE COLLECTIVE SCHOOLS INTERVENTION
'Working within a philosophical framework has definitely opened space for us to engage in thought-provoking discussions and share a range of perspectives that we might have not encountered otherwise. On top of this, interacting with a younger generation and gaining a better understanding of how they perceive the world has led me to continuously question my own values and priorities. Taking this into consideration, I can confidently say that engaging with the AntiFragile collective in this project has contributed both to my personal and professional growth.' Student X, Second Year, BA (Hons) Creative Direction for Fashion
In March a radical teaching intervention at Chobham academy in Stratford took place as part of the Innovation Fund initiative through The School of Media and Communications, LCF. Initiated by LCF academic Charlotte Troy and her pedagogic research into how philosophy and creative practice can be used in pedagogic design for wellbeing, she developed a series of three workshops in collaboration with a collection of art and design second year undergrad students (aged 19-21).
Over the space of two weeks Charlotte and her students worked with a selection of KS4 students aged between 14-15 to research how this younger generation feel about the world they are due to inherit. Through a series of conscious raising seminars using philosophical frameworks aligned to the PHSE curriculum drivers, we encouraged these teenagers to think creatively and critically using identity politics and world building workshops. Following each session Charlotte and the students would reflect on the insights emerging from the sessions and how they related to the students as a cohort just a few years older. Our insights were fascinating, this is a generation distrustful of post-truth politics, and hyper-woke, if a little anxious, to the responsibilities bequeathed to them. They have however the emotional intelligence and a humility beyond their years needed to offer an alternative future where inclusive relationships based on acceptance and equality are fundamental, where they are free to define their own identities. This is a potential that if harnessed offers society something radically new. We are hopeful.