Debating matters because ideas matter. Debates that are worth having involve issues that have an impact on the world and affect the way in which we understand and shape the world. This is the premise of the Debating Matters Competition, which brings a fresh approach to schools debating. Since 2003, the Institute of Ideas - in collaboration with a number of partners - has developed a new style of debating competition which puts substance before style and encourages robust argument about contemporary real-world issues that are hitting the headlines, preoccupying policymakers and exercising academics. Syngenta has hosted and supported the competition from its inception.
Debating Matters involves a broad range of schools and colleges and has proven that a diverse range of students can benefit from and enjoy this new approach to debating. The success of schools that have never debated before has shown what can be accomplished.
This national competition starts with local qualifying rounds held at one of the participating schools, in a knockout format with four schools taking part. The winner’s progress to regional heats; a day-long event held at a high-profile venue in the region, in a league format with four schools taking part in up to four debates each. The competition culminates in a two-day National Final held at a prestigious national venue. After a day of preparation seminars and discussion, eight teams battle it out in a knockout competition to determine the national champion.
Debating Matters involves a broad spectrum of judges from a wide range of professional backgrounds who bring different expertise and insights. Judges engage with students, posing questions and encouraging them to develop and defend their arguments. An emphasis on taking points from the audience, with prizes awarded for the best individual contributions, opens up the debate and adds to the atmosphere of excitement. At the end of the debates, judges offer critical but constructive feedback and a justification of their decision.
As a major employer, the encouragement of skills students gain through this competition is important to a company like Syngenta, which takes new employees from the pool of local talent available. In addition, as a company we are keen to encourage the discussion of key scientific issues by the public and, in particular, by students.
Click on the links below for more information about the competition and the Institute of Ideas.
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