Perse student inspired by Debate Academy experience
Alina Turchyn (Upper Sixth) gives her thoughts on taking part in the Debate Academy, organised by the English-Speaking Union (ESU) this summer.
The ESU’s debate academy this year was an incredible experience. I had the privilege of engaging in organised argument with like-minded peers and bettering my understanding of the world around me.
I benefited from the guidance of mentors who brought diverse experiences to the world of oracy, including law students and former British Parliamentary debating university champions.
Over the week I participated in debates in the ESU Mace, British Parliamentary and World Schools formats, as well as having the opportunity to judge a debate myself.
Besides this, I attended elective lectures ranging in topics from an introduction to ADHD to the importance of perception.
I firmly believe that oracy is an invaluable life skill and there is no better place than Debate Academy to develop your spontaneity, analytical skills and confidence.
I look forward to further involvement with the ESU this year through their series of public debates and competitions and am hoping to return to Debate Academy next year as a mentor myself.
Published