Shireland CBSO Academy has placed 34th out of 200 schools in its first year participating in the national Debate Mate competition.
The result marked a strong debut for the Academy’s team, who took part in a series of structured debates designed to develop students’ confidence, reasoning and communication skills under pressure.
The programme, delivered through Debate Mate Schools, aims to broaden access to high-quality oracy and leadership development opportunities. It focuses on developing communication, collaboration and critical thinking skills through regular competitive debates.
Schools that take part in such programmes often use them to extend learning beyond the classroom, helping to raise aspirations while strengthening transferrable skills that support both academic progress and future pathways.
School Principal, David Green, said: “Experiences like Debate Mate are powerful because they shift how students see themselves as learners. We see young people who may initially be hesitant grow into individuals who can stand up, organise their thinking and express it with clarity and purpose.
“That confidence carries into the classroom, into their wider studies and into how they approach challenges more generally. It’s one of the most impactful forms of learning we can offer outside the curriculum. What’s been particularly pleasing is seeing how students have embraced the challenge and supported one another throughout the process.”
The Academy’s first year in the competition placed it within the top fifth of participating schools nationally, marking a strong foundation for future involvement.
The school said that the programme will continue to play a role in developing students’ communication and leadership skills as part of the Academy’s wider commitment to enrichment and personal development opportunities.
