Leeds primary schools debating competition 2017

Pupils in years 5 and 6 from across Leeds primary schools put their debating skills to the test at a special competition at Leeds Civic Hall this week.

The teams of three, which included at least one pupil who is in receipt of the pupil premium and one pupil working below age-related expectations, had some tricky topics to debate throughout the course of the competition: Children should be allowed to wear what they like to school; it is cruel to keep animals in zoos and; happiness is more important than money.

The winning team for 2017 were: Manvinder Dev, Jack Malik and Nyla-Shea Wilson from Moor Allerton Hall Primary School.

The best individual speaker award went to Khadija Hussain from Harehills Primary School.

Councillor Lisa Mulherin and the Lord Mayor elect Cllr Jane Dowson presented the certificates, medals and trophies to the winning pupils.

Councillor Lisa Mulherin, executive member for children and families said:

“Debating is an excellent preparation for persuasive and discursive writing and can also improve pupils’ confidence and self-esteem. Not only does it support pupils to express and justify their own opinions, it also provides a platform for them to consider the opinions and feelings of others.”