On Saturday 1st July, around 60 students from across GDST’s schools, took part in a debate competition at South Hampstead High School GDST. We are pleased to confirm that 8 of our students progressed through the internal heats to represent us in the competition.
Out of the 8 students competing, 6 placed in the top 10 of their category – including Tilly and Flora (Year 12), who won in the final of their category!
Congratulations to Tilly M (Y12), Flora M (Y12), Zara D (Y10), Klara F (Y10), Lara K (Y10), Robyn W (Y10), Zunaira H (Y10) and Harriet M (Y10).
Debating at South Hampstead High School was a great experience. We participated in three initial debates, with motions about career politicians, ethnicity in adoption and the risks of Artificial intelligence (AI). We learnt so much throughout the day, with detailed feedback from the judges after each round. We were also able to meet other debaters from GDST schools around the country, and it was great to find so many people with shared interests.
We were so happy to learn that we made the novice final, and after a very tough debate (including with a fellow OHS team!) we waited in suspense for the judges’ announcements. We were overjoyed when we heard our names and went up to collect our winning box of Maltesers with pride, particularly as we were told that the decision was unanimous among the judging panel! We also both placed in the individual speaker awards, with Tilly taking 3rd place and Flora taking 5th. It was an equally challenging, fun day and has definitely inspired us to pursue our passion for debate further. Tilly & Flora, Year 12