Professional learning
We support teachers in fostering the intellectual and social skills that enable students to think philosophically.
Learn MoreInspiring philosophical thinking in children and schools
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Inspiring philosophical thinking in children and schools
Introducing students to philosophical thinking
Available to all Victorian primary and secondary schools we provide a range of events throughout the year to introduce students to philosophical thinking.
Providing ongoing support to teachers
We support teachers in fostering the intellectual and social skills that enable students to think philosophically – through training, networking and curriculum development.
Valuable resources for VAPS members
VAPS provides a range of members only materials supporting teachers and students in fostering the intellectual and social skills that enable philosophical thinking.
VAPS 2021 Conference: Best Practice in Teaching Philosophy
Our biennial conference was previously scheduled for July 2020 but had to be postponed due to COVID-19. Luckily, we have been able to reschedule for March 2021.
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What we offer
School events
Each year, VAPS runs school excursion events called PIPS (Philosophy in Public Spaces), available to all Victorian primary and secondary schools.
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VCE Philosophy Events
The Victorian Association for Philosophy in Schools (VAPS) aims to promote the study of philosophy at secondary level, including at VCE level.
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Fundraising & Grants
Funding is available to attend all VAPS events, including PIPS Events for students, Teacher Training, VCE Events, and the VAPS conference.
Learn MoreUpcoming events
May 2 @ 9:30 am
Introduction to Community of Inquiry Training (Semester 1)
VirtualLevel 1 – Community of Inquiry Training Aim: To give teachers and others sufficient practical understanding of philosophical inquiry with children in a Community of Inquiry (COI) setting to enable them to start
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May 7 @ 10:00 am
PIPS – May 2021 – Melbourne Museum
Melbourne MuseumOur first Philosophy in Public Spaces Event for schools for 2021 is open. This event is for students in Years 5-8 and will take place at Melbourne Museum on the
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May 16 @ 9:30 am
Introduction to Community of Inquiry Training (Semester 1)
VirtualLevel 1 – Community of Inquiry Training Aim: To give teachers and others sufficient practical understanding of philosophical inquiry with children in a Community of Inquiry (COI) setting to enable them to start
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May 23 @ 12:00 pm
VCE Unit 3 Forum
VirtualVAPS VCE Unit 3 Forum 2021 Each year VAPS hosts forums with academics to support VCE Philosophy. In 2021, our online forum to support VCE Unit 3 will be held
View event details →Inspired by the Philosophy for Children movement, the Victorian Association for Philosophy in Schools (VAPS) promotes critical and creative thinking among young people.
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What we offer
Supporting teachers in fostering the intellectual and social skills that enable students to think philosophically.
Find out more Upcoming events
Our Philosophy in Public Spaces Events are run throughout each calendar school year.
View events Become a member
Becoming a member grants access to the members’ resources and discounted access to events.
Sign up now