Organised and produced by Stepney All Saints students following a series of study workshops through Winter 2024, supported by Samosa Media.
Topics. Religion in schools. Should the rich pay more tax? Should the UK bring back National Service?
Watch the film here
The event followed the format of the popular BBC show Question Time. Study workshops were held over a period of eight weeks to prepare for the film, supporting the students, to encourage debate and academic development, by providing a platform where students can express themselves.
These Samosa Media workshops support the students’ academic development, by providing a platform to explore politics, history, journalism and culture.
Which led to the students feeling confident to debate in front of a live audience and debating on the above topics. Chris Rothon, School KS5 Pastoral Supervisor said,
“The Question Time Project 2025 provided an outstanding opportunity for students to develop essential transferrable skills through engaging, debate-based workshops. Students were challenged to express their perspectives and there has been a marked change in their confidence, critical thinking and a deeper appreciation for diverse viewpoints. This type of curriculum enrichment is invaluable across arts, culture, and public speaking, ensuring young people are equipped for both academic and professional environments.
Engaging in structured debates enhances their ability to construct well-reasoned arguments, evaluate evidence, and articulate ideas persuasively. Key skills that will serve them well in both their academic studies and future careers. This initiative has truly empowered students, leaving them better prepared for the future. We would like to express our thanks to Anwar and Natalie for facilitating these excellent workshops, and hope that our partnership with Samosa Media may long continue.”
Natalie Marshall Samosa Media Education Officer said,
“Seeing students step up, challenge ideas, and find their voices in a live debate setting was incredibly rewarding.
What stood out most was the confidence and curiosity they developed throughout the process. These workshops don’t just teach debating skills, they encourage critical thinking, teamwork and the ability to engage with different perspectives. Key skills for life beyond the classroom.
This kind of curriculum enrichment is so important. Whether students go on to university or enter the workplace, the ability to communicate effectively will be invaluable. It also ties closely to PSHE education, helping young people build resilience, confidence, and a sense of knowing they have what it takes to achieve their goals outside of their school. I’m incredibly proud of the students and the way they embraced the challenge.”
Feedback from the Stepney School Sixth Form students that took part.
“our feedback and opinions would be asked which I believe was key for me to see that my voice matters.”
“I have learnt about the different ways people express themselves through things such as dance, music and debate, the importance and meaning of people’s culture and trying to find and keep it and how differences in viewpoints and opinions can come together without conflict through voice.”
“I have learnt about the importance of using your voice, as it is your most powerful asset and being confident in your voice.”
“Definitely, it helped me grow my confidence and I have learned the key skills for talking in front of a crowd that will definitely help me in the future.”
“I had the opportunity to not only deepen my understanding of the current political landscape, but also to connect with new people that I may not have otherwise met and the staff were incredibly helpful.”
“I have learnt the importance of knowing the “nation’s numbers”, of recalling the “island story” and most importantly, to love my own identity.”
“ I learnt about different cultures through their representation in the world of politics and art. In addition, the confidence-boosting session made me see how everyone is unique in every way.”
These Student Question Time films are also made for use by other UK schools, to help provide diversity in the curriculum learning resources.
Filmed and produced by Victor Rios from Samosa Media.
Samosa Media’s work is supported by The Portal Trust and The Esmee Fairbairn Foundation.
School Liaison officer. Mr Chris Rothon.
Panellist and Student Production Team :
- Haidy Cruz Rivera – Chair
- Promity Sarker – Pane
- Tahamina Habib – Panel
- Jorna Hossain – Panel
- Muhammad Habib – Panel
- Sayed Uddin – Panel
- Anisa Rahman – Panel
- Saimul Riyad – seating and door control
- Ismat Nuri Kashem – production and marketing
- Samia Ahmed Inne – production and marketing
- Lamisa Oishi – production and marketing
- Raisa Azad – production and marketing
For further information please contact Samosa Media on info@thesamosa.org.uk or Mr Chris Rothon | KS5 Pastoral Supervisor christopher.rothon@stepneyallsaints.school
