Food for thought: The Downs Malvern introduces ‘Chippy Chats’ to promote pupil voice, wellbeing and life skills
A leading Worcestershire school has launched an innovative new way to get pupils thinking about big issues – by discussing them over fish and chips.
Chippy Chats has been introduced to The Downs Malvern every Friday to encourage pupils to take the lead in guided conversations around themes linked to values, wellbeing and key life skills. Using prompt cards placed on each table, pupils explore a different topic each week, from artificial intelligence and mutual respect to individual liberty and the rule of law.
Staff join pupils at the table as active participants, reinforcing a culture of openness and mutual respect while ensuring that the focus remains firmly on pupil voice.
The initiative is designed to help children develop confidence in expressing their ideas, listen thoughtfully to others and engage with a range of perspectives in a supportive and relaxed environment.
Andy Nuttall, Headmaster of The Downs Malvern, said: “Chippy Chats are a simple but powerful way of creating space for meaningful conversation in the middle of a familiar part of the school day.
“By giving pupils the opportunity to lead discussions on real-world themes, we are helping them to build confidence, empathy and critical thinking skills, all while strengthening the sense of community that lies at the heart of The Downs.”
By turning lunchtime into a moment for reflection and dialogue, Chippy Chats support the school’s wider commitment to nurturing well-rounded, thoughtful and articulate young people.
The Downs Malvern offers independent education for children aged six months to 13 years on a picturesque 55-acre campus in the Malvern Hills. Part of the Malvern College Family of Schools, The Downs Malvern was named Small Independent School of the Year 2024 at the Independent Schools of the Year Awards.
