Year 5 Spring Championships – (State School Only)

Our primary school debating competitions are probably the most fun and chaotic events we offer! Each term, we welcome roughly 200 students from local state primary schools to compete in upwards of 80 debates. This term’s event is on March 27th from 9.30am-3.30pm. Students compete in teams of three and all teams take part in at least three debates, with every student giving one speech per debate.

This competition is Year 5 pupils. No experience is required, although we recommend you do several practice debates with them in advance.

March 27th, 9.30-3.30.
Teams of three all do at least three debates.
In each debate, every speaker gives one speech lasting no more than three minutes.
There are two teams in every debate: one in support of the motion (topic) and one against.
Students are given the motion 15 minutes before the debate and must prepare in their team, with no internet access or teacher help.
Rounds are power paired: teams compete against teams on the same number of wins as them.
It is a content first format. We look for strong arguments, with good explanation and reasoning. Style matters, but is secondary to content.
Debates are adjudicated by South Hampstead High School’s debaters, who are all experienced in competitive debating.
The location is South Hampstead High School, 3 Maresfield Gardens, London, NW3 5SS.

Thank you for an excellent event. I particularly liked the South Hampstead girls giving the feedback and managing the judging. All our children thoroughly enjoyed all elements and left very inspired.

– Emma Kruger, Parent at St Stephen’s