After weeks of preparation, members of Priestley’s Debating Society competed in the English Speaking Union’s prestigious MACE Debating Competition, which has run since 1957.
Pheobe McMahon, Jessica Bairstow and Aidan Carter took on Bolton School Girls’ Division, opposing the motion ‘This House supports the implementation of a four-day school week.’
Priestley’s main speakers argued against the motion based on its impact on student and teacher mental health, its economic implications and the ‘academic gap’ in student attainment that would be widened.
Sophie Redmond, Rowan Morley and Daniel Barbour also attended, having helped the team prepare their arguments. They contributed thoughtful questions during the other debates that evening.
The strength of their arguments and their oracy skills secured them a place in Round 2 in January.
“As a college we are very proud of their hard work in preparing and competing, and wish them the best of luck in Round 2,” said Graduate Tutor Guy Smith, who leads Priestley’s Debating Society.
The college hosts debates in college every Wednesday at 3.30pm and anyone is welcome to attend.
