News

On Wednesday 23rd October, Kenilworth School hosted the inaugural KMAT Great Debate. Key Stage 3 students from six different secondary schools debated one another in a wonderfully intense morning of discussion. Representatives from the Labour, Conservative, Liberal Democrat and Green Parties all judged, along with representatives from Kenilworth Town Council and local business. The event also saw the return of Mrs Hilary Hughes following her recent retirement.

Using the scores from the group stage, Westwood Academy won the prize for Best School. Lawrence Sheriff School come second and Kenilworth School third. A number of our Kenilworth Students were also selected by the judges as outstanding debaters.

First place was awarded to Lola from Westwood. Some of you might remember Lola from the test event ran at the end of the last academic year. Needless to say she impressed all of the judges, none of whom fancied stepping into the ring with her for a discussion themselves. Second place was awarded to a year 9 student from Lawrence Sheriff by the name of Chinalu. Third place was awarded to Jeslin and Ann Mary of Bishop Ullathorne and Myton respectively.

KMAT CEO Mr Abbott, Kenilworth School Headteacher Mr Nicholas, and The Westwood Academy Headteacher Miss Hatch presented the awards.

Mr Dickson of the Liberal Democrats commented that "'the creativity of the points expressed in the debates and the controlled passion with which views were expressed by students shows how engaged young people are in the big questions that their generation faces. Based on the inaugural KMAT Great Debate democrats will always win over autocrats." 

Mr Hales, here in his capacity as a representative of the Conservative Party said "'It was a fantastic event and incredibly well organised. The standard of debate across all the schools was outstanding and it was great to see all the students interacting with each other and building friendships. Well done to all."

My personal favourite is the young student from a school that will remain un-named who I heard say quietly to his peer "This is so intense! Why is this so exciting?"

We look forward to seeing them all again next year.

Mr Dudley

Head of Year 9 / Teacher of English