Debating Competition St Andrew's School vs St Philip's & the American School of London - 25th February 2025

This term saw another impressive debating competition between St Philip's School and St Andrew's School via Zoom, and on this occasion with the addition of a team from the American School of London.

We tackled two topics:

The motion: 'This House believes that technology makes us less intelligent'

&

The question, 'Should all teachers have a teaching qualification?'

We had excellent proposition and opposition argumentation and it was super to see contributions from across the floor and some very well informed POIs. 

In the first debate the majority felt that technology did not make us less intelligent, but there were huge concerns as to the influence of social media and how to use technology in an informative way, rather than as a distraction. Many students raised the potential challenges that AI might bring to society. 

In the second question, there was concern that a teaching qualification requirement might drive out talent, and that qualifications alone do not guarantee or make someone a great teacher.

In the St Philip's vs St Andrew's cup, the cup returned to St Philip's this year - just a little more rebuttal and extended responses helped the St Philip's team retake the trophy. Nevertheless, the St Andrew's team spoke very well and grew in confidence as the debate progressed.

In the tri-competition of all 3 schools, overall the American School of London provided the most consistent performance throughout - very well done. 

A great competition from all! Looking forward to the rematch.