Pupils from three West Leeds primary schools have been putting their debating skills to the test at a competition at Leeds Civic Hall.
To support and encourage pupils’ confidence and debating skills, Leeds City Council hosted a city-wide debating competition for pupils in years five and six.
Pupils from eight primary schools across the city took part in this inaugural competition, including Bramley St Peter’s, Raynville and Stanningley.
The top two school teams which made it through to the final were Bramley St Peter’s and Drighlington, with Alicia Crawshaw, Demi-Leigh Wood and Jake Marsh from St Peter’s being the overall victors.
Councillor Lisa Mulherin, executive member for children and families said:
“Debating is an excellent lifeskill and can also improve pupils’ confidence and self-esteem. Not only does it support pupils to express and justify their own opinions, it also provides a platform for them to listen and appreciate the opinions and feelings of others.”
The winning team, including teacher Verity Hemingway and pupils Alicia Crashaw, Jake Marsh and Demi-Leigh Wood are pictured above with Cllr Mulherin and Cllr Helen Hayden.