Bradford College

Debating Stars Dazzle

 In a competition that goes from strength to strength, the Bradford Law School was proud to host the third annual ‘Schools Debating Competition’ at Bradford College.  40 pupils from schools across the region were delighted to take part in 10 simultaneous debates across campus – strengthening their capacity to think analytically and formulate convincing arguments.

Commenting on the prestigious competition, Event Organiser and Law Lecturer, Charles James said: “The Schools Debating Competition is one of the highlights of the year for me. It’s wonderful to see the pupils involved, sharpen their communication skills and undertake responsibility for self-motivated learning!”

This year, senior pupils debated whether ‘Forces veterans should have an extra vote in General Elections’ and if ‘The man who makes two blades of grass grow, where one grew before is of more use to humanity than all the politicians put together.’ Whilst junior pupils debated if ‘It is better to be lucky than clever’ and whether ‘Sport should not be compulsory at school after age 14’.

The standard of debate was extremely high and competition fierce.  The 20 judges were extremely impressed by the preparation and dedication shown by pupils who demonstrated key skills highly prized in the legal profession.

Huddersfield New College’s Erin Hill and Samia Hussain scooped the Senior Prize Winners Awards, with Best Individual Performer going to Erin Hill. Batley Grammar School’s Mark Lajca and John Worth were runners up.

Bradford Girls Grammar School’s Alexandra Wild and Bismah Ali won the Junior Prize Winners Awards, with the Best Individual Performer going to Alexandra Wild. Batley Grammar School’s  Sam Butterworth and Sam Elsworth were runners up in the exciting competition.

The students were delight to be awarded prizes by Michele Sutton, OBE, Principal and Chief Executive of Bradford College.  Principal, Michele Sutton congratulated each worthy winner as she presented them with glass trophies to mark their achievements. All pupils receive a Certificate of Participation for their portfolios.

Schools participating in the prestigious competition included: Batley Grammar School; Bradford College, Girls Grammar School, (Bradford), Grange Technology College; St John Fisher School (Dewsbury) and Huddersfield New College.

Event Organiser, Charles James concluded after the success of the competition: “The ability to research and put forward a strong and persuasive argument is a key skill that law practitioners use throughout their career.  The debating competition gives pupils the chance to develop this skill in a competitive yet fun and friendly environment.”  Charles added: “The pupils have had an inspiring experience that will encourage them to pursue careers in the legal profession.”