Pupils from Fareham schools have taken part in a debating competition organised by local MP Suella Braverman. Six local schools were invited to gather at Fareham College where Year Eight pupils debated a range of topical issues.
Judging this year’s competition was Suella Braverman, the Editor of the Portsmouth News Mark Waldron, Mayor of Fareham Susan Bayford and Principal of Fareham College Andrew Kaye.
The pupils debated a range of issues including whether tuition fees should be abolished, the effects of video gaming and whether everyone should become a vegetarian. One team would argue in favour of a proposition and another team from a different school would oppose it.
Speaking after the competition, Suella Braverman MP said:
“I’m really grateful to the judges and everyone at Fareham College for helping to host this third annual schools debating competition, and I’m delighted that it’s been another success.
“We had three very interesting debates which featured some excellent speeches and great performances from all of the schools. I am really encouraged by the enthusiasm for debating including the expression of belief and ideas, delivering speeches and grappling with our great language. I very much look forward to welcoming the winners to Parliament in the near future.”
Dylan Kelso and Isla Milnes took first prize for Fareham Academy, with Dylan also winning the Best Speaker prize. Catrin Gibbard and Amy Lobo finished in second place for Cams Hill. Elizabeth Lindsell and Yusef Khan were awarded third place for Boundary Oak. The winners will have the chance to visit the Houses of Parliament.
