A group of A level Politics students from Notre Dame flexed their debating muscles on Thursday 6 December when they attended a Debating Matters competition at the Thackray Medical Museum. This competition was arranged with the support of NHS Digital, and organized by The Leeds Salon.
Accompanied by politics tutor Dr Kevin Warnes, our students had the chance to pit their wits against other schools on the following two motions: ‘The constant monitoring of our health does more harm than good.’ and ‘Medical data sharing is a threat to our privacy.’ In the first debate, students Hannah Boyle and Joseph Grindrod won a tight tussle with Woodkirk Academy. We were narrowly pipped at the post in the second debate, where Heather Flaherty and Jo Parker battled Beckfoot School, who are former winners of the national Debating Matters competition. The judges commended Joseph and Heather for the quality of their opening speeches and contributions during the debate, so overall we finished in second place.
In addition, Hannah was given the Best Individual Award for her outstanding contributions in the first debate and for the questions she asked from the floor during the other two.
Dr Warnes said: ‘The team were fantastic ambassadors for the college and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. We look forward to taking part in future Debating Matters competitions in 2019!’
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