YEAR eight pupils held their first ever whole year debate.

The motion brought before the house was that “All forms of animal testing should be banned”.

The X side argued the case for the motion and the Y side argued against.

Students have been researching the topic over a period of time both in their forms and at home.

It was clear to see how prepared the students were as they articulately set out their arguments and listened and responded appropriately to the other side.

The debate was an amazing success. At times it was hard to believe that we were watching a debate comprising 12 and 13-year-old students.

The arguments presented were mature and passionate and everybody who contributed covered themselves in glory.

It really was an event that allowed the talent and personality that we have in Year eight to shine through.

Each and every one of the students can be proud of their contribution to the debate.

We should also reserve a special thank you for the Year eight form tutors who prepared their forms so well and helped to make the debate such an unqualified success.

Unfortunately in debates there has to be a winning side and our judges Miss Mason (Assistant Headteacher), Mrs DuToit (Head of Citizenship) along with Louise Norton and Hollie Walsh (Year 11) decided that it was a close affair but the Y side just edged it and the motion was not passed on this occasion.

The X Side will of course have the opportunity to level the scores in our next debate very soon!

A special mention must go to all the proposers and seconders from each form who began the debate so well by setting out the arguments and inspiring the rest of the year to contribute.

Well done and congratulations to the whole year group. We all look forward to the next one!