Xaverian A Level Politics students were recently invited to Bolton Lads and Girls Club to join a live TV debate on the national issue of banning social media for under-sixteens. The debate was part of the government’s ‘Big Conversation’ on social media. The students were asked for their views, as over-16s as part of the consultation process, as well as being able to give a retrospective view as young people who have grown up using social media and are therefore able to judge the impact that both the technology and any ban may have on the lives of those it would affect.
The show’s presenters interviewed a number of students of differing ages from different schools to gain a broad spectrum of opinions on the practicality, enforceability and moral issues relating to the proposed government legislation. The students gave considered and honest opinions on the subject and talked of their own experiences using social media.
Xaverian student Michael Davies-Phelps, former pupil of Hulme Hall Grammar School and studying A Levels in Law, Politics and Sociology was asked about parental responsibility and having conversations with their children, instead of government regulation. Michael answered by talking about the open communication he has with his own parents and hoped that this would be the case with other families. Commenting on his experience, Michael said: “The opportunity was probably one of the most interesting things I’ve ever done. I never imagined when starting at Xaverian that I’d be given the opportunity to speak on live television, even if only for a brief period. I think in terms of my academic study, it has had quite an indirect influence on me. It’s given me an insight into journalism, which is a career I’ve always been intrigued by, and the experience of expressing my opinions on a public level, which is something I have never done before. Being a student at Xaverian and taking part in experiences such as these has really solidified my intent on entering the legal profession and engaging in international and human rights issues.”
Former Trinity Church of England High School pupil, Stavan Chavan, studying A Levels in Ancient History, History and Politics at Xaverian spoke about the accuracy of information available on social media and whether it can be trusted. Stavan talked about his experience of being an A Level Politics student and how he cross-checks information with credible news sources whereas on social media the information is pushed to you and isn’t always credible. Stavan said: “Being on the show was pretty daunting at first but, over time, it kind of mellowed out as we did rehearsals. I think from the whole experience I took that the most important thing when it comes to experiences like this is to chill yourself out to calm your nerves and it all turns out ok.”
Stretford Grammar School pupil, Finley Ainsworth, studying A Levels in English Literature, Music Technology and Politics spoke about the fact that, if a ban were to be implemented, it would result in the platforms and companies being unable to regulate what is appropriate for children. Referring to the experience of Australia banning social media for under-sixteens, Finley pointed out that over half of children are still accessing social media content and able to access dangerous or violent content through other means. Finley said: “The debate was an amazing experience, and it was really interesting to hear different young peoples’ opinions on social media. it was definitely nerve-wracking being on TV for the first time, but the TV crew were really friendly and it made me more confident in my public speaking abilities.”
Neil Mountjoy, Teacher of Politics at Xaverian said, “Having been through rehearsals, although intense and slightly scary, the students thoroughly enjoyed their experience of the pressure of a live TV broadcast. As well as seeing how a TV show is created, they were able to take part in a nationally-broadcast debate on a contentious issue. The students gave intelligent answers and talked about how there are arguments for and against bringing in a ban. It was a unique experience for the students and one that will help them as politics students to gain an insight into how contentious issues are handled and resolved in government. As ever, the Xaverian students were a credit to themselves, the college and their generation. One BBC viewer even commented: “I am amazed at how thoughtful and well-informed the students were.”