Debate Competition at Goffs School

Mrs Crawford is very proud of the school’s KS3 Public Speaking Team for winning the cup at the Goff’s Academy Speaking and Debating Competition on 21 April 2023.

We understand this was the first competition of this kind; it was organised really well by Goffs 6th formers, and we thank them for the excellent opportunity. The team were tasked to create two three-minute speeches and the topic for Debate 1 was ‘What should the main long-term priority for the UK government be, and why.’ The topic for Debate 2 was ”There is more that unites us than divides us.’ To what extent do you agree with this statement, and why.’ Challenging and interesting topics, I am sure you will agree. After each speech, the team had opportunities to spontaneously quiz their opponent team on the content of their speeches and vice versa so showing real skill in listening and thinking on their feet.

The standard was high, and we are very pleased that our team at St. Mary’s won. It’s not easy standing up in a formal setting in front of a group of strangers, but our team should be very proud of their achievements all round, lines were learnt, and the team presented beautifully. Well done to the St Mary’s Students for an excellent, winning, performance! Our team consisted of two Year 7’s, Joshua and Megan, two Year 8’s Gabriella and Adaeze and Year 9 student, Ruby.