Frequently Asked Questions

Sorrel Teaches is a set of live online classes in philosophy, mythology and wellbeing, designed for highly intelligent young minds. The classes keep students engaged, expanding in knowledge and prepared for our changing world.

All classes are taught by Sorrel, who holds a BA in History and Philosophy and an MSc in Psychology and has taught on Outschool for many years. You can read more on the About page.

There are three areas. Philosophy classes introduce concepts and philosophers from across time and from many different countries, followed by a flowing discussion that builds critical thinking skills. Mythology classes explore myths and legends from around the world, and older learners begin to decipher the life lessons our ancestors wanted us to have while building ELA skills. How to Live classes cover life skills such as knowing who you are, money, picking good friends, handling rejection and making decisions.

Classes are offered for learners from ages 4 to 18, grouped by age bracket. Each class listing on the Classes page shows its age range, and there are advanced options that students can join by readiness rather than age.

Yes. I believe all children are gifted in a sense, especially students who are drawn to philosophy and mythology, and children who are sensitive or spiritually oriented.

Because of the subject matter, we explore and find solutions to a wider breadth of areas of life than most classes do. I am a warm teacher, but I have high standards, because kids can do more than we think. My classes are gently rigorous.

Discussion is at the heart of the philosophy classes. Students meet a concept or philosopher, then take part in a flowing conversation. There are no wrong answers, and students are supported to build critical thinking skills, deepen their arguments, broaden their horizons and organise and communicate their thoughts clearly.

No. Classes introduce ideas from the beginning, and students are placed by age bracket. The advanced philosophy class is the option for students who are ready for more.

Never more than 7 or 8 students.

Some sessions are 30 minutes and some are 45 to 50 minutes. Each class listing shows its length.

Each class has its own format. Click on a class you are interested in to find out more.

Yes. Only Sorrel and the students in that class have access to the recording.

Classes are live and online, and enrolment is through Outschool. Each class on the Classes page has a See on Outschool button that opens its listing, where you can see current times and pricing and book a place.

A computer or an iPad. Worksheets are provided for some classes.

They can watch the recording to catch up.

Yes. There is no obligation to take a class for any length of time.

Class times work best for North, Central and South America and Europe, although I also have students in Australia and Malaysia.

With warmth, gentleness, curiosity and no fear, and with deep respect for each student's own person and reaction to the topic. If a student becomes overwhelmed or uncomfortable, they are comforted and are free to leave.

Yes, in the sense that some philosophers come from theist backgrounds, and almost every myth comes from a religion or way of life, so we learn about those too. My approach does not centre any one religion or perspective as the truth. It holds equal respect for all, including atheists.

Yes. Each class is designed for the age range shown in its listing.

A deeper understanding of the world we live in, and stronger thinking skills. In philosophy, students build critical thinking skills, learn to deepen their arguments, expand their horizons, and organise and communicate their thoughts clearly. In mythology, they explore history, geography and cultures, decipher the life lessons our ancestors wanted us to have, and build ELA skills. In How to Live, they begin their journey into adulthood strong, centred and knowing who they are.

The guides are for anyone who wants to go deeper into philosophy and mythology, with a version for children and a version for adults on each topic. They are free: enter your email on the Materials page and the PDF is sent straight to your inbox.

A few times a month, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Articles are written for parents and curious minds and are published on Sorrel's Substack. The latest pieces appear on the Articles and Videos page, and you can subscribe there to hear about new ones.

Email sorrel@sorrelteaches.com, or message Sorrel through her Outschool teacher page.