Topical Talk resources

Discuss a different news story each week, explore one news issue in depth over five, or do both!

Looking for your resources?

We appreciate this might not have been the page you were looking for. We have moved our current affairs resources to here.

Topical Talk gives you free teaching resources for weekly classroom discussions about current affairs.

Our adaptable activities help the news make sense for learners aged 9+. Find out more about the two different types of resources below.

What are Headlines?

Our one-hour resources explore a current news story in the headlines. A new one is published every Wednesday.

  • Weekly session plans
  • Activities to foster progress in listening, speaking, problem-solving and creativity skills
  • Printable supporting resources

What are Special Editions?

Special Editions explore one issue in depth over five lessons.

  • Package of five one-hour lessons
  • Sequenced session plans that build towards a final piece of work
  • Printable supporting resources

Our resources foster discussions between young people that help them develop open minds, critical eyes and informed voices.


These are accessible to all learners: they are bespoke, carefully thought-out and allow students to improve across a number of key skills.

Michael Baker, Faringdon Community College

How do I get these resources?

Simply create a free account to download your resources straight away.

Get my free resources

Why sign up?

  • Yellow icon of a bar chart with an arrow showing an increasing impact

    A visible impact on your students

    Topical Talk discussions give children the knowledge and skills to succeed at school and beyond. They make significant progress in communication skills so they become better listeners and more confident speakers. A focus on critical-thinking also helps their creativity and problem-solving. We use a research-backed universal skills framework to help you track your students' progress.

  • Orange icon showing a speech bubble with a tick inside it

    Discuss complex issues with confidence

    Topical Talk gives you the confidence to have discussions about complex and sensitive issues. Our teachers work with The Economist’s journalists to make sure facts are presented accurately. We have a decade of teaching experience in creating resources that are appropriate, accessible and inclusive for all learners.

  • Pink icon of a school

    Build cultural capital from your classroom

    Our resources open students’ eyes to matters of global importance and nurture their awareness of different perspectives. Through Topical Talk discussions, students develop open minds and informed voices. Help them think for themselves about the stories that affect us all.