A debate to remember at St. Vincent’s, Liverpool!
The debate club, Brian and Joanna from MAPD group and Becky and Greg from Smart School Councils
Today, we had the incredible opportunity to visit St. Vincent's School - a specialist school for sensory impairment in Liverpool. What an afternoon we had.
We met five young debaters - Jake, Katie, Yetr, Josh, and Sienna - members of the Big Debate Club. Thanks to their teacher Conor, We've been following their journey on Twitter for a few months, and seeing them in action was amazing.
Adding to the excitement, we were joined by special guests Joanna Kingston-Davies and Brian Cullen, co-founders of The MAPD Group. Joana and Brian work in the legal profession, helping to power the growth of local law firms nationally.
The motion for today's debate was a hot topic: 'Does social media improve or impede communication?' Guided by Becky, with fantastic support from students at The Bridge Academy in Hackney, we were ready for a great debate.
The range of views presented was amazing!. I was partnered with Katy, who argued that social media, with its shorthand like LOL and IKR, actually impedes communication. It was a perspective I hadn't considered before. Great job Katy.
Jake and Yetr also shared their views, articulating their arguments with incredible skill. The debate was lively and engaging. Well supported by our guests Joanna and Brian.
Each of the debaters shone like true superstars. And Conor, the teacher guiding them, is maybe perhaps the most passionate debating teacher we've encountered this year. Conor, you rock!
Behind the scenes footage of St. Vincent’s recording something special for Big Debate Club.
Following the main event, we had a quick-fire debate on a thought-provoking topic: "Would you prefer to be poor and honest or dishonest and rich?" Jake and Sienna jumped in with their brilliantly articulated views, adding even more depth to a great afternoon.
The day was a true reminder of the power of young voices. With the right support, belief and a dose of fun, we can do more to encourage voices to be heard.
A special thanks to Brian and Joanna from the MAPD Group for joining us. Like-minded professionals who take such a proactive role in the day is great. It's really clear that "making a positive difference" aren't just words on a website for them, but the way they actually do things.
Stay tuned with St. Vincents - there may be news of a very special event soon. And looking forward to the bright futures ahead for these remarkable young debaters!