Dicey Conference 2013

On the 12th and 13th of March, Louise and I had the honour of attending the Dicey Conference in Trinity College, Oxford. Although the aim of the conference was to meditate upon the welfare state and its relevance in the 21st century, I felt that in the two days there we had gained something of a much larger significance. To help us understand the topic we were presented three lectures from professionals who couldn’t be more different in one another. Together, they presented a balance of views that spanned different political outlooks and theories on the further development of this governmental instrument.

Afterwards we diverged into small groups where we discussed our interpretations of the lecture that we had just heard. This ensured that all members of the group could count on their opinions being heard, which in itself was a vital component of the whole experience. Not only did it build on our confidences but we also had the wonderful experience of being able to hear intelligent arguments from those outside our usual social circle. In the end it felt gratifying to carry this, a step forward and discuss our very own views on welfare with the entire group of 84 people. I had the remarkable opportunity of sitting on a small panel of people which would take turns in answering a plethora of questions on the subject. It felt exhilarating to know that in two days I could acquire knowledge that I could share with my fellow students on a subject I had previously barely skimmed on. All in all this was an exceptional opportunity and I am grateful to have represented my school in such an acclaimed conference. 

Sofia (Yr 12)