Cicero Cup national primary schools debating programme

On 22 January, Kilburn Grange School hosted the annual heat for the Cicero Cup debate competition. Eight teams from seven London schools competed for the chance to advance to the Cicero Cup National semi-finals.

The competition featured two rounds: the first was a pre-planned round with topics such as banning cars and shutting down zoos. In the second round, pupils were given 20 minutes to prepare their arguments for an impromptu debate. All 48 pupils spent the day developing their oracy, confidence and critical thinking, leaving with newfound abilities and lifelong memories.

Two BPET schools participated in the competition: Deer Park School and Kilburn Grange School. Among the two teams, two "star speakers" were recognised for their respectful and well-thought-out debating techniques. Oliyad, from Kilburn Grange School, was praised by Scott Ralston from Noisy Classroom as "the most stylish speaker I've seen in years in primary school debates." He continued by highlighting Oliyad's ability to command a room, his targeted use of language, and engaging style.

The facilitators rounded up by saying today's competition had "some of the strongest primary debates in a while, the pupils were talented across the board!" 

Congratulations to all the pupils who participated in the debates! Thank you to all the teachers and to Kilburn Grange School for their involvement in the competition, and special thanks to Scott and Debbie from Noisy Classroom for facilitating the debates.