Zoom Debating Competition & Certification - 31 January 2026

This was a superb debating competition full of clearly argued points, with authenticity and conviction to the fore and excellent body language and active listening skills shown throughout. It was wonderful to bring together so many from so many different time zones to this occasion.

The motions:

·       ‘This House would ban social media for under 16s’

·       ‘This House believes that students should be allowed to skip subjects they dislike’

With Australia, France, Denmark and the UK all implementing or looking at a ban on social media for under 16s, we delved into this very topical subject. 70% voted against a ban, with community, education and connectivity a key feature, in addition to a fear of jobs being lost in the tech industry. Those arguing for a ban put great emphasis on the power of friendship formed in person/face-to-face.

Whilst many felt that they took certain subjects for too long, knowing it was clear this would not be for them, the majority took the view that children should be exposed to the widest range of subjects for as long as possible (as children evolve differently) and it would be too easy to limit oneself/narrow one’s scope at too early an age, when not fully knowing enough about each subject.

We are delighted to report on our members achieving distinctions and merits for their respective grades. Very well done all!