The Great Debate

On 24 November, we were delighted to host the ‘Great Debate’ Competition, organised by the Historical Association. Students from various schools were challenged to research, prepare and present a powerful argument on a local historical place or person deserving greater recognition. 19 students took part in the competition (from CH itself, Ifield Community College, the Weald and Hurstpierpoint College) and gave speeches on topics ranging from a POW camp in Billingshurst, a Japanese emperor and the Kenyan environmentalist Wangari Maathai.   The judges – comprised of three historical experts, including Christ’s Hospital’s history teacher Mr Keet – had a difficult decision to make when it came to deciding on which one student to send through to the final in March out of over 15 students.

A student from the Weald commented: ‘The impact of the event on everyone involved cannot be understated; it serves as an important reminder of the significant work of organisations such as the Historical Association, inspiring the younger generations but also curating a love for the past, for history, for what has shaped the world.’