The semi-finals of the Inter-House Debating saw spirited competition between Wellesely and Blackford and Lyon and Arion houses this week.

After a series of excellent points from all competitors, including many fantastic performances from members of the 4^th Form, the winners were Blackford and Arion who will go on to complete in the final of the Debating competition. 

Mr Ericson - English Teacher

Inter-House Debating has rose to prominence in recent years as it has moved from the common room to theatres and stages around the school. With this comes an added pressure, after all the House Debating holds lots of house points. The tactic for an inter-house debate would be very simple if it were not for the opposing side. The argument constantly evolves, and with this, you need to adapt your arguments, the final speaker needs to be responding to all questions as well as the oppositions arguments. This is why time management is key. Although there is no sure-fire way to win a debate, the best method I have found so far is to get straight to the point and capture the audience as best you can with the debate title. This can be difficult with some of the pithier debate titles, but then you need to change and develop the argument so that it holds importance to your audience.

Seb - Blackford House Debating Team