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  • CIT Event

CIT Event

Continuing a Tradition of Confident, Curious and Thoughtful Leadership

At Harris Academy Morden, we are delighted to continue (CIT) Cake, Intellectual Discussion and Tea, a valued student leadership programme for students in Years 7-9 who enjoy exploring ideas, discussing current affairs and developing their leadership potential.

Meeting twice each half term and facilitated by a senior member of staff, CIT provides a welcoming environment where students can engage in meaningful discussions on contemporary issues, global events and philosophical questions. Over tea and cake, students are encouraged to share their views, listen to different perspectives and build the confidence to express themselves with clarity and respect.

Rooted in the HAMD Citizen ethos of Courage, Challenge and Success, CIT encourages students to demonstrate the courage to voice their opinions, embrace the challenge of engaging with complex issues and strive for success through intellectual curiosity, critical thinking and effective communication.

Membership and Application

Membership of CIT is offered through a formal application process. Students interested in joining are invited to submit either an essay or a speech presenting their views on a current global issue or philosophical topic. Applications will be assessed on clarity of thought, quality of reasoning, communication skills and intellectual curiosity.

Benefits of Participation

Members of CIT have the opportunity to:

  • Develop confidence in public speaking and discussion.
  • Strengthen critical thinking, reasoning and communication skills.
  • Explore topics beyond the classroom curriculum.
  • Work alongside like-minded peers in a supportive and academically stimulating environment.
  • Demonstrate the HAMD Citizen values of Courage, Challenge and Success.

Discussion Topics

One of the strengths of CIT is the breadth and relevance of the topics explored. Discussions are carefully selected to encourage critical thinking, respectful disagreement and informed debate on issues that shape our society.

Previous topics have included:

  • Should parents control how much time their children spend using technology and the internet?
  • Should financial literacy be a compulsory part of the secondary school curriculum?
  • Should there be stricter regulations on fast-food chains regarding nutritional standards?
  • Should organs from a deceased person be used without the consent of the family?
  • Which is the better pathway after school: university or an apprenticeship?

This year, students will continue to explore engaging and relevant issues. One of our discussions will be:

"The mobile phone ban in schools across England came into force on 29 June 2026. Do you agree or disagree with this policy?"

Students will be encouraged to research evidence, consider different viewpoints and present their arguments with confidence, eloquence and respect.

Recognition and Rewards

Outstanding participation and intellectual engagement are celebrated throughout the year. Overall CIT winners each half term are recognised during AEE Week and awarded a prestigious CIT lapel pin, symbolising excellence in intellectual discussion, awareness of current affairs and respectful debate.

In addition, winners are invited to take part in an exclusive educational visit, providing valuable opportunities to broaden their horizons, deepen their understanding of the world around them and create memorable learning experiences beyond the classroom.

Through CIT, students continue to develop the knowledge, confidence and character needed to thrive as thoughtful, informed and successful young leaders.