On Tuesday 9th November we had our first virtual debate with Wellington Grange Care Home in Chichester. Wellington Grange had been in touch with the school asking whether some of their residents who currently take part in a creative writing class, could set up a debate club with some of our older students. Many of the residents are in their 90's but they are still very much interested in the world and passing on their hard earned experience and knowledge. They were also keen to learn from the younger generations.
The topic for the debate was ‘Should Britain have a Monarchy?’ Barbara, Chloe, Pen and Jean from Wellington Grange were on the affirming team, and David Nelson (13Andrewes), Iona Hamilton (11Story), Ella Saxton (11Sherborne) and Alex Gyopos-Cooke (11Wilson) were on the negating team. Throughout the debate both teams discussed ideas about the monarchy, democracy, justice, the economy, the role of the media and mental wellbeing. It was a truly engaging debate. Afterwards, we all enjoyed freely discussing our views about Britain’s monarchy and democracy, and we are hopeful to have another virtual debate in the new year.
Mrs J Sherlock, Teacher of English