The Queen's Debates

A day of learning about the rules of debating, culminating in a debating competition involving external judges.

Background

In 2018, as part of the centenary of the voting rights for women, The Queen’s School launched a debating competition for teams of girls aged 11-14 from local schools. A BBC journalist and Chester’s Lord Mayor were part of the event, supporting participants and helping to judge the debates. The success and feedback from schools involved led to the creation of two annual events, KS3 and KS4 debating competitions for boys and girls from local schools.

Resources

1 teacher and 1 support staff provided for planning, promoting and organising the day.
Five members of staff throughout the day helping groups with their arguments.
A number of governors and friends of the school are involved in the judging.
Refreshments and resources on the day and to take away.

Impact

The event gave young people not currently involved with debate teams the opportunity to participate in debates, hone their public speaking skills and improve their ability to construct arguments. Feedback from the five schools that took part in the first event was extremely positive.

Pupil Involvement

Up to two teams of 2-3 pupils from each school taking part.
Queen’s Sixth Formers also help with the delivery of the events

Frequency

Two annual events – one for pupils in Years 7-9 and one for pupils in Year 10 and 11.