Debating Success

The summer term has started with more heated debate, as pupils triumph in a number of national contests.

88 pupils in Year 7s to 9, from partner and GDST schools, joined last weekend’s three-round GDST Junior Debating Competition, which we co-hosted with Putney High School. Congratulations to winners of the Gold Final, Olivia in Year 9 and Sophie in Year 8, who also came joint first as individual speakers – a fantastic achievement. Well done too, to Lara in Year 9 and Juliette in Year 8,  who came first in the rounds, qualifying for the Gold Final.

This latest competition is just one of seven debating and public speaking events that have taken place so far this term. Other highlights have included standout performances in the National Final of the English Speaking Union’s Public Speaking Competition: Charlotte and Manon in Year 11 and Olivia in Year 9 did superbly well as one of only 12 teams to reach the final. Charlotte spoke on the topic: ‘Is Twitter making a nonsense of discussion or opening our eyes to the views of others?’ with Manon and Olivia acting as questioner and chair. Pupils also competed in the Finals Day of the International Competition for Young Debaters, with Olivia and Lara in Year 9 and Sophia, Eleanor, Camille and Molly in Year 8 all having made it through our Regional Round to take part.

Aside from success at external events, we hosted our first friendly Public Speaking Competition with a number of local schools – for the judging, we were delighted to be joined by esteemed activist and author Laura Coryton and our own alumna and public-speaking superstar, Jane. Debaters have also enjoyed friendlies with St Paul’s Girls and Westminster, and look forward to an action-packed calendar of workshops, tournaments and showcases after half term.