he Debate Programme has been a cornerstone of pupil development at The Grange School, offering a platform where voices are shaped, minds are challenged, and future leaders are formed. Rooted in international programmes such as MUN and ESU, this tradition encourages pupils—from their earliest years—to think critically, speak confidently, and engage with global issues. We invite you to explore the full report and learn how our School fosters early participation in debate, inspiring younger pupils to eventually join the Senior School team and carry on this proud legacy of thoughtful discourse.

In a world where clarity of thought and the power of expression have never been more vital, the Debate Programme at The Grange School offers Senior School pupils an extraordinary opportunity to develop their voice, strengthen their convictions, and engage critically with the global issues of our time. Through activities such as Model United Nations (MUN), the English-Speaking Union (ESU) Debates, and Public Speaking Competitions, this group challenges pupils to think with rigour, speak with purpose, and lead with empathy.

At its core, the Debate Programme is not only about winning arguments—it is about cultivating the habits of mind and heart that define responsible global citizens. Pupils learn to articulate ideas with precision, consider alternative perspectives with respect, and work collaboratively towards reasoned solutions. These are more than communication skills; they are life skills, aligned with the highest aspirations of a Grange education.

A Legacy of Thoughtful Discourse

Debate at The Grange has a rich history that consistently has been providing pupils with access to high-level opportunities in national and international arenas. Since 2004, Grange pupils have been an active presence in forums such as the ABSCh Debate, the ESU Debate and Public Speaking Competitions, and various MUN conferences across Chile.

Despite the interruption brought by the pandemic, which saw MUN activities paused due to the limitations of virtual formats, 2023 marked a decisive return to the international debate stage. Thanks to the renewed commitment of Mr Ciaran O’Rourke and a dedicated coaching team led by Mr Thomas Baker, The Grange resumed its involvement in MUN, with pupils earning awards at events hosted by Mayflower and Craighouse Schools.

This year, the outstanding participation of pupil María Sofía Álvarez in the ESU Chile Public Speaking Competition highlights the impact and opportunities offered by joining the School’s debating programme. Representing The Grange School with eloquence and conviction, Sofía advanced to the national semi-finals, held on 3rd and 4th April at Pontificia Universidad Católica, Campus Oriente, having been selected from over fifty participants in the first round. Her achievement illustrates the valuable space for expression, analysis and personal growth that this programme provides.

“Being part of the ESU semi-finals was an incredible experience. Standing in front of an audience, sharing my voice, and listening to others share theirs—it was both nerve- wracking and inspiring. I learned so much from the judges’ feedback and from the other participants, who were all so talented. Representing The Grange School at this level is something I’ll always be proud of.”

María Sofía Álvarez, 2025 Semi-Finalist

Grounded in the Pillars of Our Educational Project

The Debate Programme does more than reflect the ethos of The Grange School—it reinforces it. Participation in debating and public speaking allows pupils to embody the Proyecto Educativo Institucional (PEI) 2025 in multiple, meaningful ways:

Academic Pillar
Debate demands intellectual discipline. Pupils are trained in analytical thinking, research methodology, structured argumentation, and the clear articulation of ideas—skills essential to academic success across all disciplines. Through debating, they become more confident learners who are capable of questioning assumptions, evaluating evidence, and constructing reasoned responses.

“The Grange School delivers a highly challenging curriculum, valuing diversity in teaching and learning styles, and encouraging personal development inside and outside the classroom.” (PEI 2025, p. 8)

Sport Pillar
Though not a physical pursuit, debate involves mental agility, strategic planning, and resilience under pressure. Team debates foster camaraderie, discipline, and performance in competitive environments—qualities that mirror those developed through sport.

“Beyond games, enjoying exercise is essential to building positive habits, promoting values like teamwork, leadership, communication, and resilience.” (PEI 2025, p. 8)

Arts Pillar
Public speaking and debate are art forms in their own right—oral performances requiring creativity, tone, rhythm, and a sense of presence. Much like theatre, they demand that students connect emotionally with an audience, structure narratives effectively, and speak with authenticity and conviction.

“Creativity is a key element in their development.” (PEI 2025, p. 8)

Service Pillar
Nowhere is the spirit of global citizenship more alive than in Model United Nations, where pupils represent countries, negotiate solutions, and grapple with the most pressing challenges facing humanity. These experiences instil a deep understanding of international cooperation, civic responsibility, and the importance of contributing to the common good.

“We aim to form students who are committed community members, leaders in promoting the wellbeing of society, and aware of their responsibilities nationally and internationally.” (PEI 2025, p. 8)

Understanding the Programmes: MUN, ESU Debate & Public Speaking

To those less familiar with the world of school debate, the names may sound abstract—but each programme offers distinct and complementary experiences:

Model United Nations (MUN)

MUN simulates real United Nations assemblies, with pupils acting as delegates from various countries. They research geopolitical issues, draft resolutions, and debate international policies, all while adhering to diplomatic protocols. MUN hones not only persuasive speech but also negotiation, leadership, and cross-cultural empathy.

English Speaking Union Debates

This involves teams of three pupils who engage in formal, structured arguments on current issues. Motions might cover topics from environmental policy to ethical dilemmas, and pupils must be prepared to argue both sides, promoting intellectual flexibility and composure.

Public Speaking Competition

It challenges individuals to craft and deliver original speeches on topics of their choice, often with only brief preparation for impromptu responses. These platforms help pupils find their voice, share their passions, and speak with clarity, grace and impact.

A Reflection of Our Values

Participation in these forums is not only a pursuit of academic excellence—it is also a powerful expression of The Grange’s core values. Pupils embody:

• Empathy & Respect – as they listen to and consider a range of perspectives
• Integrity & Honesty – as they represent positions truthfully and debate fairly
• Team Spirit & Loyalty – as they support peers in preparation and performance
• Joy of Learning – as they explore new ideas with enthusiasm and creativity
• Spirit of Service – as they engage with real-world issues, seeking meaningful solutions.

“We want to form young people who are useful to society and trustworthy.” (Vision, PEI 2025, p. 6)

Who Can Join?

The Debate Programme is open to all Senior School pupils from 1ºEM onwards. While no formal prerequisites are required, students are expected to show commitment, intellectual curiosity, and a willingness to collaborate. On occasion, pupils from younger year groups may also be invited to participate in internal sessions, especially if they demonstrate potential or a keen interest in public speaking.

More than just a club, the Debate Programme is a community of learners who value the art of discourse, the courage to question, and the responsibility of using their voices for good. Whether preparing for a competition or simply exchanging ideas in weekly sessions, pupils are encouraged to grow as thinkers and citizens, ready to make meaningful contributions within and beyond our School.