Following our successful joint Speak up Scotland workshop in Inverness last November, we were pleased to run another group workshop in Aberdeen on Monday 19th February. This workshop was hosted by Oldmachar Academy. Pupils from this school were joined by eager new debaters from Cults Academy, Banff Academy and Aberdeen Grammar.
“It was a very enjoyable afternoon. If you are ever doing another workshop up this way, please let me know!”
– Teacher, Aberdeen Grammar School.
This was our first in-person workshop in Aberdeen since before the Covid lockdowns. It was wonderful to return to an area with such a rich debating history and bring this activity to several schools that have never had a debating club before.
The workshop in general taught me a lot about debating. I also found the exercises very unique and interesting, perfect for beginners of debating.
– Pupil, Aberdeen Grammar School.
In addition to a variety of icebreakers and games, topics covered included: how to come up with arguments, rebuttal, making judges care about what you have to say and some basic debating rules. We were so impressed with the enthusiasm and skill shown by all the participants, particularly in the mini-debates that concluded the afternoon.
Many thanks to Oldmachar Academy for hosting and making such an exciting day possible. We can’t wait to be back!