We need to talk in classrooms about Brexit

The debate on Brexit has now dominated the front pages of major newspapers, social media and news bulletins for close to three years and, with the leaving date now moved back to 31 October, it’s going to carry on a good bit longer.It’s not just politicians struggling to agree on a coherent plan on Britain’s future: we have all been engaged in debate and become frustrated at the lack of political leadership in Westminster. People argue over Leave/Remain with their neighbours, family members and even strangers. There is no doubt that Brexit has been incredibly divisive and, in addition to its economic and political cost, there is a human and social cost – we are now a more divided society. However, one space that remains relatively Brexit-free seems to be the classroom. “We don’t talk about Brexit at school, it’s too political,” some young people told me recently. And rightly so, some might argue, given how divisive Brexit is and schools being required to remain neutral on political matters. Political discussions are becoming more polarised: Brexit; Trump; teachers’ strikes for better pay. Children’s strikes to raise awareness of climate change. One can understand how it might be easier to just stay away from even mentioning these issues.