FARNHAM MP Jeremy Hunt met Godalming students recently who told him about the huge success and popularity of Secular Society at the college.

Students enjoy completely free speech in which they challenge each other’s views on a variety of controversial subjects – extremism, Charlie Hebdo, the migrant crisis, the Brexit and many more.

The individuals represent a diverse range of religious and political viewpoints - the only rule of the society is that no one is to be offended by other’s views and opinions. Meetings are lively and contentious but always good-humoured.

Student George Chandler, said: “The society is 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.”

Burhan Waheed, who also attends the college, 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.”

Burhan and George, who lead the Secular Society at Godalming College, suggested to Mr Hunt that similar societies should be encouraged and set up in every sixth form nationally as an essential part of the ‘Prevent’ strategy.

This would help in breaking down barriers and in actively encouraging pupils to challenge and combat each other’s opinions in a safe and egalitarian space. Mr Hunt promised to raise it at government level by directly informing Home Secretary Theresa May herself of this innovative, student initiated proposal.

In a letter following the meeting, Mr Hunt assured the students that he had already contacted Theresa May about the college model and added: “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 that 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.”