Co-op Academy Belle Vue’s debate team is once again making waves in the international ‘Debate with Hart’ competition, hosted by Ellen Connell from Hartland International School. After reaching the semi-finals last year, the team is determined to go even further this time, showcasing their critical thinking and public speaking skills against schools across the globe.

So far, Belle Vue’s KS4 team has impressed in Round 1, debating against Hartland International School, Dubai on the prepared motion:
🗣️ “This house believes that with the arrival of weight management drugs like Ozempic, the obesity crisis is over.”
Their well-researched arguments earned an outstanding 48 points out of 60, putting them in a strong position for the next rounds.

Meanwhile, the KS3 team has already competed in two debates against St George’s International School in Rome, Italy:

• Round 1 (Prepared Motion): 🏫 “This house believes that artificial intelligence should play a greater role in education.”

• Round 2 (Unseen Motion): 👗 “This house believes that fast fashion brands should be made illegal.”

The results for these debates are eagerly awaited, but Belle Vue students have already demonstrated their ability to tackle complex and relevant global issues with confidence.

Looking ahead, the competition heats up as Co-op Belle Vue prepares to take on:
✅ Priory Secondary School, Hertfordshire (UK)
✅ Ambassador International School, Dubai
✅ The American International School, Duhok (Iraq)

With an international stage and fierce competition, the students are ready to prove their debating skills and aim for a place in the finals. Best of luck to our brilliant debaters—watch this space!