The Abbey Gate College debaters meet once a week and as well as regular debates held on topical issues, pupils also engage in games of speed debating and balloon debates. The range of questions discussed in the Debating Society is vast and can be anything from ‘would you rather be a hammer or a nail?’ to ‘should we have another Brexit referendum?’.

Debates are both within the school and against other schools, and we compete in the National Mace Debating competition.

The Debating Society not only provides a setting for pupils to develop their opinions whilst in school but also teaches essential life skills of communicating, critical thinking, research and prioritising, teamwork and leadership. Pupils are encouraged to argue both sides, irrespective of opinion.