HOME Secretary Theresa May could use a new “free speech” group started by Godalming College students as a sixth-form model to roll out nationally as part of the Government’s Prevent strategy.

Burhan Waheed and George Chandler met South West Surrey MP Jeremy Hunt to tell him about the Secular Society they have founded at Godalming College and he contacted the Home Secretary to flag up their initiative.

At Secular Society meetings, students are invited to challenge each other’s views on a variety of controversial subjects, ranging from extremism and Charlie Hebdo, to the migrant crisis and Brexit.

The only rule is that no one should be offended by opposing views and opinions.

Burhan and George suggested to Mr Hunt that similar societies should be encouraged and set up in every sixth form nationally as part of the ‘Prevent’ strategy to help break down barriers and allow pupils to challenge each other’s opinions in a safe and egalitarian space.

The Conservative Secretary of State for Health promised to raise it at Government level and has written to cabinet colleague Theresa May.

“I was impressed and inspired by the students’ initiative to set up and make a great success of this society, which has attracted such a diverse range of students.

“I am delighted to hear it is proving very popular under Burhan’s and George’s leadership and that the range of topics discussed have been controversial, diverse and thought provoking,” he said.

George explained the society was founded on the belief that only through the frank exchange of opinion and active challenging of prejudice can people of different faiths, ideologies and cultures come to understand one another.

“The amicable exchange of opinion in the group energises all involved and encourages students to respect and empathise with one another’s differences,” he said.

Burhan added: “Personally as a British Muslim I have seen how my peers are shy and sometimes even frightened to express their world views and opinions in fear of being ostracised and labelled.

“An open society helps build bridges between cultures, religions and ideologies and develops mutual learning.”