Bedfordshire school pupils will have the chance to test their debating skills at Westminster as the counties Police and Crime Commissioner, Festus Akinbusoye, launches his third annual Schools’ Debating Competition.
The finalists of this year’s competition will compete in the prestigious Grand Committee Room at the Houses of Parliament in front of an impressive judging panel.
The initial rounds begin late January, with three separate debates open to schools in Bedford Borough, Central Bedfordshire, and Luton.
Semi-finals will take place in February at Bedford Magistrates Court before the debate final in Westminster on 5th March.
Mr Akinbusoye said: “A passion of mine as Police and Crime Commissioner is to provide opportunities and support for young people across our county.
“Taking part in these parliamentary-style debates equips our young people with invaluable life skills and confidence, testing their public speaking and analytical skills as well as their ability to make an argument.
“The last two competitions have been genuinely inspiring experiences, and I am thrilled we have been able to again host this year’s competition at the home of our parliamentary democracy.”
Each team will consist of two pupils from the same school, aged between 15 and 18 years old. They will be required to debate views they may not necessarily agree with, within a fixed time period.
Judging is entirely impartial, while marks are awarded for debating skills and style, as well as the substance of the argument.
The contests for Luton, Bedford and Central Bedfordshire schools are due to take place on 30th January.
The semi-finals will take place on 15th February ahead of the final.
For further information please contact Pauline.stewart@beds.police.uk