Island-Wide Debate Competition Highlights Student Talent

On Friday 14th June, a dedicated team of seven Year 10 students and two sixth formers participated in a new island-wide debating competition held at The Minster Church in Newport. The students approached the event with enthusiasm and an open mind, eager to engage in the day’s activities.

The morning session featured an insightful tutorial on public speaking, led by accomplished actor Graham Pountney, and a brief presentation on public speaking techniques by Bob Seeley, MP for the Isle of Wight. Following this, students engaged in a series of activities designed to enhance their speaking confidence and familiarize them with the formal debating format.

Before lunch, a draw determined the debate topics for each team and their opponents in this exciting competition. During a working lunch, the teams prepared and researched their topics, with assistance from sixth formers Ann and Blake.

Team 1, consisting of Lola, Emily, Angelina, and researcher Robyn, and Team 2, comprising Alex, Finn, and Toby, competed with enthusiasm and confidence. Team 2 faced Ryde School, while Team 1 took on the IVth Form College, both formidable challenges.

Each debate was judged by a formal panel of three judges, with an audience in attendance.

Team 1 emerged victorious in their debate and was honored as the runner-up in the overall competition. Emily Tokuhara Mazgaj also received recognition as the runner-up overall proposer. The event was a resounding success, with all participants demonstrating excellent debating skills and having an enjoyable experience.