On Friday we were delighted to host the second Diverse Academies Big Debate at Hucknall Sixth Form Centre. This event showcases the impressive talents of post 16 students who compete against each other debating topics given to them at the start of the day.
As an icebreaker on arrival, they were given some mini-topics to go and find someone to discuss the points with. This was to warm their brains up ahead of the main debates, and encourage all team members to get involved and work together.
Students from Tuxford Academy, Walton Academy, East Leake Academy and Hucknall Sixth Form Centre (comprising students from National Church of England Academy, The Holgate Academy and Queen Elizabeth’s Academy) competed in two rounds each, meaning they each got to debate twice against different opponents, with points given for wins, draws and losses.
The topics debated ranged from crime, to societal issues such as marriage and fertility, national identity cards, parity of pay for sportsmen and women, and (of course!) Brexit. The debates were fiercely competitive, with both the arguments for and against each of the motions articulately presented, countered and questioned. The level of knowledge shown and research undertaken by these talented students was stunning – all staff in attendance were blown away by the standard of the teams, and all academies competing should be very proud.
At the end of the day, the overall winners of the Big Debate were Walton with 8 points, having won both of their team debates. Well done to the girls from Grantham for the win, but congratulations to everyone who took part in an enlightening and entertaining day.
