International Debate

In January 2024 some Thornton Year 12s participated in an online debate with our JM partner school in Lebanon. It was an entirely student-led event organised by a Year 12 student Celia D and two students from Lebanon.

Thornton proposed the motion This House Would separate art from the artist. The teamwork on both teams was outstanding. All the speakers had crafted their arguments well, with high levels of preparation, and many diverse examples. Although the debaters were mostly beginners, it was a thoroughly engaging and interactive virtual debate, with many questions posed from all speakers.

Students are currently planning another debate, as they plan to make this a half-termly debate series.

Aims

To embed internationalism into our school ethos and ensure that we partner with our JM schools around the world.

Ensure opportunities for Thornton students to engage with students around the world and form meaningful links.

Increase global awareness and perspective and introduce this to global debate.

Background

This was a student led idea and action.

We have a sixth form leadership team and one of these roles is as an International Ambassador.

Thornton is a Jesus and Mary School - JM School.  There are JM schools in twenty-nine countries around the world educating over 100,000 students.

Thornton College is the only JM School in the UK.

Resources

Online Meeting equipment - zoom license and IT.

English Department Teaching staff included for 2 hours.

No financial contribution required.

Impact

Incredible opportunity for Thornton students to meet JM students in another country.

Increased debating experience.

Pupil Involvement

Student let project.

10 year 12 students were involved in this project and 15 Lebanese students age 16/17 years.

Frequency

This was originally a single event but given the success students are now planning for this to be a termly event.