Each week, our Debating Club gather together to debate some of the world’s most pressing topics, from politics and culture to history and ethics. This year they took part in The Great Debate competiton.

Themes are often influenced by the current PSHE topics being taught and aim to be relevant to young people’s lives.

Whether you’re planning a future in parliament or just want to speak up with more confidence, the club offers a space that’s inclusive, lively, and genuinely fun.

The Great Debate competition progresses through regional heats, semi-finals, and culminates in a Grand Final held at Windsor Castle. The 2025 theme, “How can your local history tell a global story?”, invited students to explore the broader significance of their local heritage. At MPW, a mini-internal competition was held to select three students to represent the college at the regional round. Participants delivered speeches to a panel of MPW staff and were scored across several criteria, including content, delivery, and engagement with the topic. After a strong showing, Mert, Aleksandra, and Sarah were chosen to represent the college at the regional heat, held in December at Haybridge School. Each student dedicated considerable time to refining their arguments and honing their presentation skills.

A special congratulations goes to Mert, whose moving speech on his hometown of Hatay earned him the runner-up prize for the entire event. Speaking with warmth and clarity, Mert invited the audience to see Hatay through his eyes—as a place defined by openness, inclusivity, and a deep cultural legacy. It was a moment that reminded everyone in the room of the power of storytelling, and the value of diverse perspectives.