Debate Champions at the 2025 Urban Debate League Novice Finals

We’re so proud to announce that our school was chosen as one of the top 8 schools nationwide—out of over 150—to take part in the Urban Debate League Novice Finals, hosted by 10X Banking in Holborn.

The atmosphere was electric from the moment students arrived. Year 7 student Safa spotted the trophy and confidently said, “This is ours for the taking.” And she was right!

Our amazing team—Kaavya, Safa, Alamia, Tyra, Laurence, and Sanam—had been working hard for weeks, preparing speeches and practising their arguments for the big day! The motions debated were:

·         This house believes technology is the best way to solve the climate crisis.

·         This house believes sport is better than music at uniting people.

·         This house believes that not voting should be illegal.

They went up against strong teams from St Matthew’s Academy, St Paul’s Academy, and Sydenham School, and after a series of fantastic debates, they made it into the top two finalists.

In the grand finale, our students took to the stage in front of a big audience and a panel of judges to debate their final unseen motion:
“Technology is the best way to solve climate crisis.”

They were on the Opposition side, arguing against the idea that tech is the best solution—and they absolutely smashed it! With powerful points, sharp delivery, and teamwork, they won the debate and were crowned champions of the 2025 Urban Debate League, taking home the trophy!

Some of their standout arguments and questions included:

“Can we fix the climate crisis without first changing behaviour and values?”
Technology can help, but without changing how we live and consume, the root problem remains.

“What good is new technology if it’s not affordable or accessible to those who need it most?”
Many developing countries can’t access expensive green tech, making it an unfair and incomplete solution.

“Isn’t reducing overconsumption just as important as inventing greener tech?”
Tech doesn’t stop the cycle of waste and overuse—it just tries to clean up after it.

“Are we focusing too much on futuristic solutions and not enough on what we can do right now?”
We already have effective low-tech solutions—like reducing meat consumption and using public transport—but they’re being ignored.

Huge congratulations to the whole team for their hard work, confidence, and brilliant performance. You’ve made us all proud!