Pupils from across the David Ross Education Trust compete at Primary Debating Competition

Pupils from primary academies across the David Ross Education Trust came together to compete in the Trust’s annual Primary Debating Competition.  

Pupils from Northampton’s Briar Hill Primary School, Cedar Road Primary School, Eastfield Academy, Kings Heath Primary Academy and The Arbours Primary Academy, and Daventry’s Abbey CE Academy, Falconer’s Hill Academy, Newnham Primary School and Welton CE Academy were involved in the workshops and competition, which was held at the Royal and Derngate in Northampton. 

As part of the contest, which has been made possible by the David Ross Education Trust Inspiration Fund, pupils were encouraged to explore their skills in public speaking and learn how to develop a balanced debate. 

Following their consistant and convincing debating, Year 5 pupils from Cedar Road Primary School and Year 6 pupils from Briar Hill Primary School were crowned champions of the competition. 

Jamie Healy, Cultural Enrichment Officer at the David Ross Education Trust, said: “Everyone was hugely inspired by the exceptional debating at this year’s competition.

“At the David Ross Education Trust, we believe that learning to debate at a young age has many benefits and is a valuable learning tool to help pupils develop their speaking abilities, improve listening skills and build confidence. 

“A big thank you to all our pupils who took part in this year’s debating competition, and our teachers and Principals at our schools who have engaged with this opportunity for our students to develop these invaluable skills.”

The annual Primary Debating Competition is just one of many highlights within the Trust’s pioneering enrichment programme that aims to motivate young people to become their confident, academic best. 

The David Ross Education Trust Inspiration Fund is used to create thousands of incredible opportunities for the Trust’s 13,000 students, helping them to develop their passions and discover their talents.

HOW YOU CAN HELP THE INSPIRATION FUND

If you would like to find out how you or your organisation can support the Inspiration Fund, please contact James Russell, Director of Communications & Public Affairs at the David Ross Education Trust by emailing JRussell@dret.co.uk.

You can also make a donation to the Trust’s Inspiration Fund JustGiving page, where all proceeds are used to create outstanding opportunities for its 13,000 students.