On 16th June, The University of Bedfordshire hosted the second annual meeting of the Bedfordshire Junior Debate Academy for pupils in years 5 and 6.
Eight schools hotly contested four very adult-themed debates spanning censorship, social networking, blood sports and women MPs. Livingstone Primary School were awarded the trophy for the best Proposition Team, and Putnoe Primary for the best Opposition Team. The title of 2018 Debater of the Year went to Ryan of Livingstone School.
Professor Jan Domin from the university, and Alex Bailey from Dartmouth House, joined the Branch President Dr Tony Wood on the judging panel. The judges complemented the participants on the high standards of debate, especially meritorious in view of the ages of the children.
This story was submitted by the ESU Bedfordshire & Milton Keynes branch. Please click here for information on this branch and its upcoming events.