Course offers pupils space to think

Global Perspectives iGCSE starts in September

Studying ideas and learning to think critically are key skills Island students need for the 21st century - according to education chiefs.

Philosophy is taught in a variety of forms in all Manx schools, both primary and secondary, offering an approach to learning which can help youngsters in subjects across the curriculum.

Every school has a teacher trained in Philosophy for Children - or P4C - which has the broad aim of making children better thinkers.

Last year Andreas primary school won a UK award for its P4C work, and from September, a new iGCSE in Global Perspectives will be on offer to students at St Ninian's High School.

Here's director of Education Geoff Moorcroft: