Philosophy for children

Bringing the benefits of philosophy to young people

National Thinking Classroom Awards

Recognising schools that provide 'a space to think'

Philosophy for adults

Get involved with our courses and resources

Don't just take our word for it...

... Read praise for our work

What is philosophy?

Why we believe everyone can and should do it

Thinking Changes

Our Mission

Our mission is to bring understanding, wisdom and eudaimonia (flourishing) to the heart of education for children and adults. We believe that reasoning skills developed through philosophical enquiry are an indispensable foundation of all aspects of learning and that Philosophy, like maths, music or physical education, is intrinsically worth doing and intrinsically engaging.

We asked some of our philosophers why they chose to do philosophy, here's what they said...

Become a Trustee with The Philosophy Foundation

The Philosophy Foundation is looking for passionate and dedicated individuals to join our Board of Trustees.

Who We're Looking For

We are seeking individuals with expertise in one or more of the following areas:

Marketing
IT
Human Resources
Volunteer Management
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI)

Why Join Us?

Joining TPF as a Trustee provides a unique opportunity to contribute to a respected charity making a significant impact in education and the community. You will work with a dedicated team committed to philosophical education and help shape the future of our organisation.

Time Commitment

The role requires a commitment of 5-10 hours per month. Quarterly board meetings are held on the last Tuesday of August, November, February, and May. Meetings are currently online, but you should be available to attend one in-person meeting per year in London.

More information and how to apply here.

Young Plato Documentary & Resources

Young Plato is an observational documentary is set in post-conflict Belfast's Ardoyne, where a marginalized working-class community has for generations been plagued by poverty, drugs and guns. The film charts the dream of Headmaster Kevin McArevey and his dedicated, visionary team illustrating how critical thinking and pastoral care can empower and encourage children to see beyond the boundaries and limitations of their own community. We see how philosophy can encourage them to question the mythologies of war and of violence, and sometimes challenge the narratives their parents, peers, and socio-economic group would dictate.

The Philosophy Foundation started working with Holy Cross Boys' Primary School in Belfast in 2014 and as a partner school we have had the privilege to work closely with Kevin and the staff at Holy Cross Boys' since then.

We have worked with Soilsiu Films to develop educational resources that can be used alongside this film, including lesson plans and strategies for doing philosophy with children that address issues of emotional literacy and critical thinking.