Richmond upon Thames College (RuTC) is delighted to have won this year’s Debating Matters London South Championship held at St Mary’s University, Twickenham on 24 January 2018. The RuTC team comprised of eight students studying a range of A level subjects and this year was the first time that the college had won the prestigious trophy.
Kasim Agpak, Politics Lecturer said, “Richmond upon Thames College became involved with Debating Matters as it provides an excellent platform for students to improve a wide range of skills including public speaking and leadership. The competition allows students to engage about current issues with the ultimate aim for individual personal development and growth.”
RuTC’s team debated on a number of issues including whether controversial historical monuments should remain and whether a universal basic income is a possible solution to the UK’s problems. The final round involved RuTC debating with Godalming College on the topic of populism and after some deliberation, the judges returned announced Richmond upon Thames College the winners and were awarded the trophy, £500 worth of books or resources from the current Hodder Education Catalogue, a special Debating Matters Champion mug and a ‘Lost in Thought’ notebook for each student.
Student Isaac Skye studying Sociology, Psychology and Religious Studies A-Levels said, “Although at times the competition was stressful and difficult, overall, I found it challenging and engaging and am grateful for the experience it gave me – it was definitely worth being involved.”
Other teams that participated in the event were from Ravensbourne School, Harris Westminster Sixth Form, Invicta Grammar School, Cardinal Wiseman Catholic School, Putney High School, DLD College, Godalming College, Stationer’s Crown Woods Academy, Riddlesdown Collegiate, Ursuline High School and St John’s School.
Debating Matters is a competition organised and run by the Academy of Ideas to establish and create a public space where ideas can be ‘contested without constraint’. The competition provides a platform for sixth formers and college students throughout the UK to engage in rigorous, well researched and well thought through public debate.
