Thomas Gainsborough School Sixth Form Debate Society
This year, our Sixth Form students have significantly expanded our Debate Club, creating a platform for students to engage in lively discussions, express diverse viewpoints, and sharpen their critical thinking skills.
In just the first half-term, the Debate Club has already tackled some thought-provoking topics. We began with a debate on whether private school fees should be abolished, examining the pros and cons of access to this education, financial disparities, and the impact on educational equality, while tying the discussion to current events like the government's proposal to put VAT on private school fees. The debate sparked passionate arguments on both sides, challenging members to think deeply about the role of education in society and its accessibility. Ultimately, the opposition won, and the house ruled that fee-paying schools should not be abolished.
Next, we debated whether the monarchy should be abolished, sparking an exchange about tradition, governance, and national identity. Members discussed the monarchy’s role in modern-day politics and culture, questioning its relevance in the 21st century. We engaged the audience by conducting a vote before and after the debate. While the majority still believed that the monarchy should not be abolished, the proposition to abolish it had the largest swing, successfully changing the most minds.
Looking ahead, the Debate Club is preparing for its most ambitious event yet: a mock debate between Harris and Trump for the title of the 47th President of the United States, happening on Friday, 25th October. This event will give two students the chance to step into the shoes of these political figures, using their public speaking skills, knowledge of policies, and a touch of theatrics to argue from their respective perspectives. It’s a fantastic opportunity for students to engage with the decision that millions of Americans will face this November, enhancing their cultural capital and deepening their understanding of political discourse.
For further details on our very successful US Presidential Election please follow this link - https://tgschool.net/news/us-presidential-debate-25th-october-2024
The Debate Club has already made a remarkable impact this year, consistently drawing nearly 80 students to each debate. We look forward to seeing how it continues to grow, providing more opportunities for students to engage in meaningful discussions and develop their public speaking and critical thinking skills.
The TGS Debate Society would really appreciate any feedback on debates this year. Please do follow this link to fill in your student feedback.
