The 1^st Knockout Rounds for Inter-House Debating were held in three locations around King's on Monday...

This House believes that TV licences should be abolished.

Wellesley vs Blackford

This debate saw a close fought contest between Wellesley and Blackford House as they tackle the motion of ‘This House believes that TV licences should be abolished.’ Both teams were well researched, passionate and confident in their delivery. It was fantastic to see debating thriving down the School, with pupils in the 3^rd and 4^th Form making such fantastic contributions. Whilst there was some very strong debating, Amelia, of Wellesley House, demonstrated fantastic public speaking skills, formulating a well-articulated argument that demonstrated great research and tactical awareness. Whilst Blackford chose to focus on the advantages and benefit of the BBC, Wellesley decided to agree, but continue to express that they felt that this should be funded through alternative means, rather than the licence fee. It was a very close debate between Wellesley and Blackford House, which saw very small margins in both content, and style ultimately decided the overall winner. Whilst Blackford pipped Wellesley on style, due to the engaging way in which they delivered their respective speeches, it was ultimately Wellesley who delivered a stronger argument and won the debate. Well done to both teams!

Dan Cupit - Deputy Head - Academic

Lyon v Arion

Lyon focused around the licence fee being a tax which affected the poor because it is a standard rate for everyone. Arion explained the richness of the programmes and the sheer variety that the BBC offers: at 43p a day it is less than a Mars Bar. There were some amusing moments when Lyon thought the BBC should be shut down because people have different opinions than those expressed by the BBC.  Lyon also argued that the BBC is biased because there are several Conservatives on the board of trustees - exactly the political party proposing these sweeping changes. The eloquence and confident delivery, however, won the debate for Lyon: 41 points to Arion’s 36.

Alison Grant - Deputy Head

Flickr album: Debating - 1st Knockout Round - 24th January 2022 | Height: auto | Theme: Default | Skin: Default Skin