On Tuesday 20 January during lunchtime break, the Lecture Theatre hosted the much anticipated, Year 9 Inter‑House Debate Competition. Under the guidance of organiser and Head of History, Mr Player, pupils demonstrated confidence, composure, and impressive critical thinking as they tackled three challenging and contemporary topics.
The event was well attended, creating an energetic atmosphere that encouraged thoughtful, and often spirited, exchanges. Following the structure used across the College’s debating competitions, pupils had 60 seconds to present their argument for or against the given motion. This was followed by an open-floor debate where Houses could challenge, question, and rebut each other’s points.
The judging panel made up of Sixth Formers Aaliyah Hall, James Middlehurst, and Max Warby, assessed the clarity of argument, factual support, delivery, and overall persuasiveness.
The three motions for the Year 9 contest were:
Should students be allowed their mobile phones?
Should Britain give more money to other countries?
Is Britain the best place in the world to go on holiday?
Debate One: Should students be allowed their mobile phones?
The first motion prompted a lively discussion on technology, responsibility, and learning. Those arguing against mobile phones in school focused on the need to minimise distractions and maintain a purposeful learning environment. They drew comparisons to future workplaces where personal phone use is limited. On the other side, the pro‑phone team argued that education should prepare pupils for the real world by teaching responsible device use. One memorable analogy was: “We don’t ban the pen because students can pass notes — we shouldn’t ban the phone because it has TikTok.” They insisted that digital literacy is essential and that schools should guide students, not shield them. During open debate, opponents countered that any educational apps available on phones, such as Duolingo, can be accessed on school computers, which offer far fewer distractions.
Debate Two: Should Britain give more money to other countries?
Those against the motion highlighted domestic concerns such as infrastructure repairs, NHS funding, and social services. The pro‑motion team argued passionately that wealthy nations have a moral and strategic obligation to support less developed countries. Investments in healthcare, education, clean water, climate initiatives, and rescue operations, they argued, foster global stability and improve the world for everyone. When the floor opened, the conversation evolved into discussions on migration, conflict prevention, and long‑term reciprocity. Would supporting developing nations reduce the pressure of global crises - and would those nations support Britain in return?
Debate Three: Is Britain the best place in the world to go on holiday?
The final motion produced both humour and thoughtful reflection. The pro‑Britain side celebrated the UK’s cultural richness, diverse cuisine, world‑class museums and theatres, famous sports venues, and unique landscapes - beaches, islands, mountains, and historic cities. They also highlighted the environmental benefits of holidaying at home, reducing emissions by avoiding air travel. Their opponents argued that Britain’s unreliable weather, rising transport costs, and fewer tourist attractions make it less appealing than sunnier destinations abroad. One debater noted simply, and to much laughter, that “England is a boring country”.
After three tightly contested rounds, the judges announced the standings:
Runners‑Up: Everett
Winners: Skipwith
Mr Player praised all those who took part: “Well done to all contestants for preparing and participating. It was a lovely event with excellent performances across the board, convincing arguments, and good back and forth. We are proud of them all”.
Well done to the participants:
Skipwith: Archie Humphries, Amelie Mertes
Everett: Douglas Stewart, Lyra Jones
Burr: Arabella May, Jan Strzelecki
Welsh: M. Buchanan, T. Lawrence
Orchard: A. Williams, L. Hathway
It was clear throughout that Shiplake pupils are developing the ability to think beyond the classroom, examine complex issues, and engage respectfully with opposing viewpoints. Congratulations to all competitors for an engaging and memorable lunchtime of debate – and a special well done to Skipwith for claiming this year’s trophy.
