Dialogue Society North East Branch was delighted to deliver its Life of a Chickpea educational programme at Hadrian Primary School in South Shields, where 90 enthusiastic students took part in an engaging day of learning, creativity and dialogue.
The Life of a Chickpea is an interactive educational programme that encourages young people to explore the British values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect and tolerance through storytelling and creative imagination. Using the symbolic journey of a chickpea in Noah’s Pudding, the programme helps students reflect on identity, diversity, belonging and the importance of contributing positively to society.
Students participated in interactive discussions and activities, gaining a deeper understanding of dialogue, respect and community cohesion while meeting local role models from different faiths and professional backgrounds.
The session was enriched by contributions from distinguished guest speakers:
- Maria Fraser – Member of St. Gregory’s Catholic Church and Faiths Together South Tyneside
- James Fraser – Member of St. Gregory’s Catholic Church and Faiths Together South Tyneside
- Yusef Abdullah – Chairman of the South Tyneside Region Equality Forum and Representative of the Muslim Community
- Sergeant Katie Thompson – Community Engagement Officer, Northumbria Police
Their personal experiences and insights encouraged students to appreciate diversity, embrace dialogue and understand the importance of working together to create safe, inclusive and respectful communities.
Dialogue Society extends its sincere thanks to Hadrian Primary School, the teachers, guest speakers and all 90 students for making the event such a memorable success. The enthusiasm, curiosity and participation shown by the pupils demonstrated the importance of equipping young people with the values and confidence needed to become active, responsible and compassionate members of society.
