Autumn Debating

Our termly debating competitions are our flagship events. These competitions last from 4.15pm to 8.30pm; students compete in teams of three and all teams take part in three debates. The Autumn version is designed for beginners and intermediates, we would advise advanced students to prioritise our Winter competition on November 29th.

Sign up here

Registration is now open

 

Our competitions are designed, first and foremost, to be exciting, enjoyable evenings for everyone involved. There is always a wide spectrum of ability and complete beginners are always welcome.

 

  The format

  • Teams of three speakers all do three debates.
  • In each debate, every speaker gives one speech lasting no more than five 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 access to the internet.
  • The competition is divided into two age brackets: Years 7 to 9 and Years 10+
  • 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.
  • We hire judges who have a lot of debate and judging experience so the students receive high-quality, actionable feedback for every debate.
  • The location is South Hampstead High School, 3 Maresfield Gardens, London, NW3 5SS

A briefing video for our termly competitions can be viewed here: https://vimeo.com/912207334?share=copy

After your Spring Debate last year, I decided to create a competition within our school, modelled on your setup, and we had over 60 students participate and 15 6th formers running the rounds and adjudicating. It was a great experience!

Head of English, St Michael’s Catholic (Barnett)