We recently hosted the second round of the prestigious English Speaking Union Schools Mace debating competition at Channing. Pupils and teachers from six different schools in the borough took part, competing for two places in the Regional Final. With help from our wonderful Year 9 Junior team (Amelia D-A, Saira C, Leila A-H and Isabella N), who acted as guides on the night, the audience of nearly 50 convened in the Sixth Form Studio. The Senior team, Eve C, Molly S and Catrin C, had worked extremely hard to prepare their speeches opposing the motion, ‘This House Believes that schools should focus on maximising students' value to the modern workplace over a broad and balanced education’. The debates were heated and the judges commented on the exceptionally high standard and we are delighted to announce that Channing made it through to the Regional heats. This is a truly impressive achievement: congratulations! The Year 9s who attended commented on how exciting it was to watch the cut and thrust of a live competition; they were inspired and entertained. Thank you to all the staff and pupils involved in making the event such a great success and we wish the team luck for future debates.