Staffordshire Youth Debate

Event Information

The first Staffordshire Youth Debate was held in 2016 where young people represented six schools from across the county and debate issues relevant to them in front of local county councillors.

In 2017, the number of participants increased to over 80, debating issues in front of decision makers from relevant partner organisations and a judging panel made up of local councillors.

The most recent debate in 2018 saw a change in format, where anyone could contribute to the debate and share their own personal opinions of the issues being debated.

Entering the Debate

Any young person from Staffordshire can enter the debate. You do not need to be part of a team to take part.

Schools and youth organisations can register up to 10 young people who can take part in any of the debates, or just observe the proceedings. Everyone is encouraged to prepare a speech for every debate topic for the best chance to take part in the debates.

We ask that a maximum of two members of staff support the young people. If you need to send more adults to support, please let us know.

We will require a completed consent form for all young people who attend. This can be found on our website and returned either via email or on your arrival to the debate.

The debate itself will be held in the Council Chambers in County Buildings, Stafford, where our county councillors debate issues and make decisions. Lunch will follow the debates, with the opportunity to meet other participants and observers. This will be served in the Oak Room in County Buildings.

Debate Leads

We are looking for schools or youth organisations to submit Debate Leads who will open and close each debate. Each school or organisation will be one of the Opening and Closing teams of a debate to compete against other schools in the county. There will be a prize for the best school team as decided by the judges.

If you are interested in your school or organisation leading in a debate, please contact Josh Armitage on josh@staffscvys.org.uk