A team of Senior students has emerged as heat winners of the first round of the prestigious English Speaking Union’s Schools’ Mace.
The team, comprising Janaii (Y13), Anna and Natalie (Y11) with Ned (Y13) and Lora (Y12) as researchers, speechwriters and reserves, debated Dulwich College, taking opposition for the motion ‘This House would implement a four-day school week’. They will now progress to the Round 2 heats in January 2025.
Established in 1957, the ESU Schools’ Mace is the UK’s oldest and largest debating competition. It involves around 300 schools each year, with students from Key Stages 3 to 5 debating a wide array of subjects and current affairs.
Teacher of English and KS5 Co-ordinator, Miranda Solley, said: “The students gave impressive speeches, showcasing the thorough research undertaken by the whole team during the run-up to the debate. We are delighted that they came first out of six teams in this first round, and wish them all the best for the next heat in the new year.”
