LIANNE PONFERRADA CTKC Island school debating competition upcoming this summer

The ‘Debating Isle of Wight Competition’ will take place on Friday, June 14 and you can sign up to take part.

Taking place at St. Thomas’s Minister Church, the competition should consist of six students (aged 14+), from eight schools (subject to change).

Justin Potter, a key organiser of the event, visited local schools to spread the message.

In March, he paid Year 12 students at Christ the King College a visit.

The primary themes and objectives of the day are to provide an enjoyable day where students develop their public speaking skills by debating an array of topics, understand the purpose of debate, build self-confidence; and recognise how oracy can impact career aspirations. From lawyer to art agent, sports broadcaster to salesperson, many contemporary professions include debate, public speaking or advocacy of some sort.

To kickstart the day, it is planned that Bob Seeley will deliver his own speech, acting as an example for the students and reiterating the importance of public speaking.

• The event is still open to sponsorship

• If you interested, email robert.torrington@christthekingcollege.co.uk

Mr Torrington, Head of Student Voice at Christ the King, said: “Those behind the event have all been involved with education in one form or another, and a gap has been felt in debate skills, which this event wishes to improve.

"The hopes for the competition are for it to get Island students to collaborate and perhaps start a legacy.”

The event was received with great interest by the students. After Justin’s informative talk, many students stayed behind, eager to find out more.

Arzoo Rivizi, aspiring lawyer and Year 12 student from Christ the King College, expressed: “Speaking in front of so many people will be a challenge. However, I’m ready to engage in intellectual combat, to test the strength of my convictions and to seize this opportunity to learn!”