Debating at Hampstead Parochial School

At Hampstead Parochial School, we are in the process of developing our own unique debating curriculum and overview, which is deeply rooted in our school values and vision to ‘live life in all its fullness’. We have worked closely with a cluster of Camden schools to develop this curriculum and share expertise. We are also proud members of Debate Hub, a debating program run by South Hampstead High School. As part of this program, we receive training and workshops from teachers and students from the Sixth Form. We also compete regularly, with our Year 5 pupils recently finishing as runners-up against over 20 other independent and primary state schools.

Debating and Our Core Christian Values

Debating plays a vital role in nurturing our six core Christian values: Friendship, Respect, Forgiveness, Koinonia, Kindness, and Responsibility.

  • Friendship – Debating fosters strong bonds among pupils, as they learn to work as a team, support one another, and engage in respectful discourse even when opinions differ.
  • Respect – A key principle of debating is listening attentively and valuing different perspectives, helping pupils to develop a culture of mutual respect.
  • Forgiveness – Sometimes debates can become passionate, but pupils learn the importance of moving forward without holding grudges, practicing forgiveness in both victory and defeat.
  • Koinonia (Community and Fellowship) – Debating unites our school community and strengthens ties with other schools, creating a shared sense of learning and discussion.
  • Kindness – Pupils are encouraged to be considerate in their arguments, ensuring their words uplift rather than hurt, even when presenting opposing views.
  • Responsibility – Debating instills a sense of responsibility by encouraging pupils to research thoroughly, think critically, and articulate their thoughts with clarity and integrity.

Thought-Provoking Debate Topics for Primary Pupils

Our pupils engage with a range of topical and thought-provoking issues, designed to challenge their thinking and develop their confidence in public speaking. Some examples of debate topics include:

  • Should school uniforms be optional?
  • Is it better to have a pet or a sibling?
  • Should homework be banned?
  • Do we need more green spaces in cities?
  • Is technology making children’s lives better or worse?
  • Should school lunches always be vegetarian?
  • Can money buy happiness?
  • Should animals be kept in zoos?

Through debating, our pupils gain confidence, improve their communication skills, and develop the ability to think critically about the world around them. We are excited to continue growing our debating program and inspiring the next generation of thoughtful, articulate, and compassionate speakers.