From October 2018 to March 2019 sixteen schools, each with a team of 4 pupils from Year 11 and 12, took part in a debating competition organised by the Goethe-Institut, London. The competition offers students the opportunity to further develop their foreign language and professional skills. Pupils learn to speak freely in front of others, to overcome inhibitions and thus broaden their personal and social horizons and strengthen their self-esteem. Moreover the competition offers the opportunity to meet German learners from the United Kingdom, exchange ideas and establish longstanding contacts.
The teams dealt with current questions about the future of Europe e.g. whether a year abroad should be compulsory during school time, whether the use of plastic should be banned in Europe or whether only electric cars should be allowed in Europe from 2025.
The final took place on 27 March 2019 at the British Council. Dr Challoner’s Grammar School’s team and Hampton School’s team debated the pros and cons of whether the subject “Europe” should be introduced in schools. Dr Challoner’s Grammar eventually brought the trophy home. Congratulations to both teams for their impressive performances and their enthusiasm for German!
The competition will take place again in autumn. For further information, please explore the Goethe-Institut website.