This House Would Boycott the 2022 FIFA World Cup...

This week we witnessed a fantastic debate between Priory House and New House. Both teams had prepared well researched arguments and were ready to tackle this very current motion. It was fantastic to see both teams comprise of experienced debaters, as well as pupils relatively new to debating at King’s. Whilst much of the argument centred around the topics that have been rife in the media over recent weeks/days, it was brilliant to see both teams look to use examples from history to support their arguments, as well as questioning the responsibilities that we have as part of a global community. The level of public speaking on display was very strong, with Tia of Priory House demonstrating debating skills of the highest order. Both teams spoke confidently, addressed their audience, and were willing to tackle the big questions surrounding the motion. Strategically, it was fantastic to see teams developing the confidence to use ‘Points of Information’, as well as developing the way in which they structured the rebuttal in order to change minds. A fantastic debate and one which saw Priory House celebrate victory.

Dan Cupit - Deputy Head - Academic

The pupils had established opinions on whether it was right to boycott the world cup well in advance. However, the difference between this debate, and many others we have had in the past, is that the next 30 minutes changed minds. The research, strength of argument and sheer engagement with the audience was outstanding for both teams. They used humour, hand gestures, powerful pauses, and points of information given in a timely manner to the opposition. Speeches had to be changed and manipulated to account for the time taken to answer questions - a thoroughly difficult but useful skill to master. I can think of no better way to start the week. An outstanding performance by Arion and Lyon House.

Alison Grant - Deputy Head