Pilgrims Triumphant at House Debating Competition 2024

This week saw the hotly anticipated House Debating Final between Pilgrims and Viewpoint.  The motion was: ‘This House believes that AI in education poses a significant risk to child development’.  Speaking for the motion were Alex and Oliver E (Pilgrims 2), and speaking against were Humphrey, Marble and Dylan (Viewpoint 1). 

There were strong speeches on both sides with many a mention of our very own RileyBot AI platform.  Pilgrims asked the school for a show of hands for who was more trustworthy – teachers or AI (a clear vote for teachers….phew!).  Viewpoint had clearly consulted an expert for advice (thanks Mr Lang) and provided a compelling set of arguments to outline the significant benefits AI in education might offer children.  The audience vote went to Pilgrims by the narrowest of margins.  Our two guest judges, Mr Mitsis and Mrs Chattaway were incredibly impressed by the quality of the speech-making, persuasive language and factual evidence presented by both sides.  They offered some useful advice about speaking slowly and ensuring you connected with the audience.  In the end the Judges’ vote also went the way of Pilgrims who were duly crowned House Debating Champions 2024.  Thanks to all Debating Society members for a hugely enjoyable year of debating.