Pupils in Action in the House of Lords

Mr Barnicoat reports from the visit of some of our Y10 pupils to the House of Lords:

As a result of increasing strength in debating over recent years, Liverpool College was one of only nine UK schools to be selected by the English Speaking Union to debate in the annual House of Lords Chamber Event this year.

It is one thing to be selected, it is quite another to grasp the opportunity with the confidence, enthusiasm, and eloquence displayed by Liverpool College pupils on the day. Our group of Year 10s so impressed the trainers in advance of the debate that we were awarded three coveted pre-prepared Responsive Speaker slots. Esther M, Hajra K and Mercedes K-B commanded the House, and, with no visible sign of nerves, all delivered faultless and insightful speeches.

As the debate progressed, all eighteen Liverpool College pupils were fully engaged in the proceedings and furiously making notes. Every time calls went out for impromptu speeches from the floor, it was Liverpool College hands that went up first and with most purpose. As a result, we were called on four additional times and contributed more voices to the debate than any other school. Sama I, Molly M, Simone S, and Jan M all managed to create forceful, charismatic, and apposite speeches on the spot.

It is testament to the scouse spirit and the confidence of Liverpool College pupils that it was impossible to effectively round the group up at the end of lunch: every one of our pupils was engaged in discussion with a Lord or other dignitary.

Our pupils entered one of the most ancient and intimidating debating chambers in the world and they stood up with effortless conviction, wit, and intelligence. In addition, they charmed everybody they met.

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