Many of the works reflect current concerns in the changing nature of British life. Recent course readings have included Haroun and the Sea Stories by Salmon Rushdie, Oranges are Not the Only Fruit by Jeanette Winterson and Reading in the Dark by Seamus Deane. Distinguished theatre critic Irving Wardle teaches this course. Some of the plays attended by recent groups were Troilus and Cressida by the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, An Inspector Calls , Richard III , and An Ideal Husband . This course is taught by Peter Rose, a professor at Queen Mary and Westfield College, London University.
Students study British political institutions and current issues.
The course includes guest speakers and readings include students' daily and weekly scanning of newspapers and journals. This course depends on the Faculty Leader in any given year. As well as taking the four courses, students work 4-6 hours each week as volunteers at a nearby social service agency suited to their individual interests. Through these service learning placements, students have the opportunity to view London and work with Londoners directly and personally. In recent years, students were involved with groups such as the Bayswater Families Center, Pimlico Toy Library, and the Home Store.