Dulwich Talks 2026 | Living Worldwise, Speaking with Purpose
Content provided by English Teacher and House Mentor, Mr Whitwam
Last Wednesday, the second instalment of Dulwich Talks concluded in the lecture theatre, with a dedicated audience engaged by a series of thoughtful and diverse student voices.
Hosted by English Teacher, House Mentor Mr Whitwam, alongside Ryan D from Year 11, the event was introduced as a platform for members of the Dulwich community to share ideas, develop public speaking skills, and build confidence in expressing their perspectives.
This year's theme, “Live Worldwise”, a guiding vision across Dulwich schools, invited speakers to reflect on what it means to engage thoughtfully with the world around them. The result was a collection of personal interpretations, each grounded in individual experience yet connected through shared values.
Nine Talks, Nine Perspectives
Nine speakers took to the stage, each delivering a three- to five-minute talk that approached the theme from a distinct angle.
Together, these perspectives extended beyond abstract ideas, offering insight into how values such as empathy, responsibility, and global awareness are understood and lived within the school community.
A Thought-Provoking Opening: The Trolley Problem
The event opened with Deputy Head Mr Tony George, who led an interactive exploration of the well-known ethical dilemma, the “trolley problem”.
With the support of student Jason Z, who engaged directly with the audience, participants were invited to consider their own responses to complex moral choices.
Rather than offering clear answers, the session encouraged reflection, prompting the audience to consider not only what decisions they might make, but why.
Confidence, Reflection and Shared Experience
Across the programme, each speech offered a different lens on the theme. Some speakers reflected on empathy through initiatives such as animal welfare projects connected to the school community. Others explored the confidence that comes from autonomy and the freedom to make choices.
Throughout, the audience, composed of students, parents, and teachers, responded with attentiveness and encouragement. Moments of pride were evident as families captured key moments, while peers supported one another from the auditorium.
These exchanges highlighted something beyond performance itself: a willingness to listen, to reflect, and to engage with perspectives that may differ from one’s own.
A Platform for Growth
The continued development of Dulwich Talks reflects the school's broader commitment to high-quality co-curricular opportunities. More than a speaking event, it provides students with a space to test ideas, build confidence, and develop presence, all within a supportive environment.
In doing so, it contributes to a wider understanding of education at Dulwich: one that extends beyond the classroom and supports students in becoming thoughtful, articulate, and engaged individuals.
Head of School Ms Sarah Tielman closed the event by recognising the courage demonstrated by each speaker. She noted the preparation behind every talk, the clarity of thought expressed on stage, and the willingness of students to share their ideas with honesty and purpose.
Moments such as these, she reflected, are an important part of how students develop not only confidence in communication, but also a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.
As the second year of Dulwich Talks comes to a close, it also brings into focus the Dulwich Differences that shape learning at DHSZ.
Events such as this reflect a commitment to Holistic Education, where growth extends beyond the classroom and into real opportunities for expression, reflection, and collaboration.
They also contribute to the development of Strength of Character, as students learn to articulate their ideas, take intellectual risks, and engage with complex perspectives.
Guided by the theme Live Worldwise, the talks further embody what it means to be Truly International, encouraging students to consider their place within a broader, interconnected world.
Equally, the presence of parents, students, and teachers in the audience speaks to the strength of a Vibrant Community, where support, encouragement, and shared experiences are an integral part of school life.
As we look ahead, Dulwich Talks will continue to grow as a platform for voices across the community, a space where ideas are explored, perspectives are shared, and values are lived with purpose.
Grow in Dulwich, Thrive in Life