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Young people shine in first ever Leader’s School Debate at Cannock Chase Council

Over 40 students from local primary and secondary schools descended upon the Council Chamber to tackle the big questions in Cannock Chase’s inaugural youth debate event.

Young people shine in first ever Leader’s School Debate at Cannock Chase Council
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More than 40 children took part in the first ever Leader’s School Debate hosted by Cannock Chase Council.

The 45 children and young people from local primary and secondary schools took part in the event across two days in the Council Chamber in front of a judging panel including the Council’s Leader, Deputy Leader, Chairman of the Council and local MP Josh Newbury.

The schools that took part in the debate included:

  • Sherbrook Primary
  • Hednesford Valley High
  • St Peter's Primary
  • St Mary's Primary
  • John Bamford Primary
  • Churchfield Primary
  • Westhill Primary
  • Longford Primary

This exciting event invited students to debate the motion: “Schools should only serve food that is good for you.” Each school was assigned either a for or against argument and had five minutes to present their case. Presentations were judged on the structure of their argument, confidence, clarity and overall delivery.

A dedicated session was also held for SEND students, giving them an inclusive platform to participate in the debate and share their views. Students also enjoyed a Question Time-style session with Cabinet members, where they asked thoughtful questions about local decision-making, community issues and the work of the Council.

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Jenna Goodwin

Jenna Goodwin

CEO and editor of The Staffordshire Signal, a Staffordshire-based writer, historian, photographer and filmmaker, also known as The Red Haired Stokie, covering local news, heritage, culture and community stories across the county.

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