Philosophy and Ethics Conference: Inspiring Big Thinking for Bright Futures
Each summer term, Our Lady and St Bede hosts the highly anticipated Philosophy and Ethics Conference, led by renowned philosopher, educator, and author Dr Peter Vardy. Widely respected for his work in Religious Studies, Philosophy, and Ethics, Dr Vardy is a former Vice Principal of Heythrop College, University of London, and the author of numerous books that have shaped A-Level and undergraduate theology teaching across the UK.
The conference brings together up to 300 pupils from schools across the Diocese, local secondary schools, and our Trust. Throughout the day, pupils are challenged to explore some of life’s most profound and pressing questions—What is truth? Can AI be moral? How do we define right and wrong in a changing world? These sessions promote aspiration, upward academic transition, and deeper moral reasoning, offering stretch and challenge to all who attend.
As part of his visit, Dr Vardy also delivers a special evening talk for parents and pupils from Trust schools, offering families a unique opportunity to engage in philosophical dialogue together. After the main student event, he leads a CPD session for staff, exploring strategies to develop critical thinking and ethical debate in the classroom.
Hugely popular and consistently inspiring, the conference plays a key role in encouraging many of our young people to pursue Religious Studies and Philosophy at A-Level and beyond. At its heart, the event reflects our mission to form curious minds who are unafraid to ask big questions and explore the moral complexities of the world around them.
