Jack Thorne Challenges UK Education System With Netflix Series 'Adolescence'

August 20, 2025
Jack Thorne Challenges UK Education System With Netflix Series 'Adolescence'
  • Writer and co-creator Jack Thorne expressed concerns about the reactions of teachers to his Netflix series 'Adolescence,' highlighting a broader societal issue with the state of schooling in the UK.

  • Thorne discussed the varied responses from teachers, with some dismissing the issues portrayed while others acknowledged their accuracy, indicating a level of complacency in the education system.

  • Thorne, who has experience working in schools, emphasized the need to address neglect and problematic environments within the current education system.

  • The series features a school episode where a character, DI Luke Bascombe, interviews children, including a 13-year-old accused of murder, reflecting its focus on serious adolescent issues.

  • Since its release in March, the four-part series has sparked a national conversation about issues like misogyny among teenage boys and online safety, with reactions from teachers revealing some complacency.

  • The show’s depiction of serious incidents and teenage experiences has prompted discussions about the state of schooling and youth safety in the UK.

  • ‘Adolescence’ was filmed in a single shot per episode, earning critical praise and 13 Emmy nominations, including one for supporting actor Owen Cooper.

  • The series features notable actors such as Owen Cooper and Ashley Walters, and has received significant recognition, including Emmy nominations for supporting actor Owen Cooper.

  • Thorne expressed excitement about Netflix expanding into socially conscious dramas, building on his career beginnings with Channel 4, and praised Netflix's genuine engagement with complex social issues.

  • There was a debate at the Edinburgh TV Festival where Netflix executive Mona Qureshi defended the company's involvement in the series amid criticism from Channel 4 news boss Louisa Compton, who called Netflix a 'TV tourist'.

  • Thorne and Graham have engaged with UK officials, including Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, in discussions about the issues raised in the series, which involved extensive preparation and a meeting with the Prime Minister.

Summary based on 4 sources


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Teachers’ reactions to Adolescence show ‘real problem’ with schooling – writer

Teachers’ reactions to Adolescence show ‘real problem’ with schooling – writer - PA Media : PA Media • Aug 20, 2025

Teachers’ reactions to Adolescence show ‘real problem’ with schooling – writer

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