Managing freedom of speech in the classroom

In response to these experiences, the Centre for Learning and Teaching (CLT) and the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) team came together to better understand the challenges colleagues were facing and identify what support might be helpful.

As part of a joint project exploring staff experiences of teaching controversial topics, CLT conducted a series of focus groups with colleagues from across the university. These conversations provided valuable insight into the realities of managing challenging discussions in the classroom, including the opportunities they create for learning, as well as the complexities they can bring.

Colleagues spoke about balancing freedom of speech with inclusive practice, encouraging critical thinking while maintaining psychological safety, and responding constructively when strongly held or conflicting views emerge. What came through clearly was a desire for practical support, shared approaches and opportunities to learn from one another's experiences.

The new Managing Freedom of Speech in the Classroom resource has been developed in response to that feedback.

The resource brings together evidence-informed approaches, practical considerations and reflective prompts to help colleagues facilitate challenging discussions with confidence. It is designed to support teaching practice while recognising that every classroom, discipline and cohort is different.

Whether you're introducing controversial topics, responding to unexpected comments, facilitating debate, or looking for ways to encourage respectful engagement with different viewpoints, the guidance offers practical tools to support your approach.