RGS debaters excel in major competition

RIPON Grammar School students progressed through two hard fought debates to make it through to the North-East regional final of a major competition.

The team narrowly missed out on a place at the national final of the English-Speaking Union Schools’ Mace.

RGS debated the motion ‘This House would fine sports teams for violence perpetrated by their fans’ at Queen Mary’s School outside Ripon against Yarm School.

Their arguments were highly praised by the judges, who described them as well-reasoned and delivered with confidence and charisma.

The competition, founded in 1957 by journalist Kenneth Harris of the Observer, is an annual debating tournament for secondary schools in England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales. This year, St Aidan’s Church of England High School in Harrogate progresses to the final.

Well done to (back row, l-r) Abha Kulkarni, Joe Alderson, Tassy Bell (front, l-r) Nancy Manners, Annabel Cochrane and Magda Williams.