Oundle School Debating Society was delighted to host the first annual Balloon Debate for pupils in Years 7 and 8. Competitors from six other schools attended: Prince William School, Stamford Boys, Stamford Girls, Kings School Peterborough, Catmose College and Thomas Deacon Academy. 

The pupils gave speeches on the theme of characters from children’s literature, and impressed the judges with their eloquence and enthusiasm. 

All competing pupils were excellent, and adjudicators Chris Coles (former Head of English at Stamford High School), James Scruby (from the English Speaking Union) and Tatiana North (representing Oundle School Debating Society), were extremely impressed. 

Pupils who made it through to the second round were: Rachel Chisnall of Prince William School, representing Peter Rabbit; Harrison Lang playing Tinkerbell, and Archie Haddon depicting Alex Rider, both from Catmose College. Tinkerbell won in the final adjudication, with Peter Rabbit taking the popular vote.