Sydney Russell School in Dagenham has been a proud participant in the Debate Mate programme for over a decade. With a strong commitment to fostering student growth and development, the school has integrated Debate Mate into its culture, impacting hundreds of students since joining the programme in 2014. Despite challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the school has continued to nurture and expand its Debate Mate programme, making it a cornerstone of student life and learning
Debate Mate’s Core Programme focuses on building essential life skills through after-school debating sessions. At Sydney Russell, the programme has seen remarkable success, with students from Year 7 through to Year 11 improving their debating abilities and experiencing significant personal growth.
Jo Carter, an English teacher and Debate Mate coordinator at Sydney Russell, shared how the programme is embedded in the school’s culture. She emphasised, “Debate Mate has become a key part of our students’ lives. It’s incredible to see their confidence soar, not just in debating but across all aspects of their education.”
From the students’ perspective, Debate Mate has been transformative. Myrah, a Year 11 student, began her Debate Mate journey in Year 7. Reflecting on her experience, she highlighted the programme’s role in developing her leadership skills: “Debate Mate pushed me to take on leadership roles, which has helped me in all aspects of my life. By Year 10, I was elected House Captain, something I would never have imagined before.”
Younger students also echoed these sentiments. A Year 7 student shared, “I used to be quiet in class, but Debate Mate has given me the confidence to speak up. Now, I love contributing to class discussions.”
Debate Mate has opened doors for Sydney Russell students far beyond the classroom. Myrah recounted a particularly memorable experience: “Meeting Keir Starmer was incredible. It sparked my interest in politics and showed me how much is possible when you step out of your comfort zone.”
The opportunity to compete in various schools and universities, such as their trip to Greenwich, has been a highlight for the younger students. A Year 8 student expressed her excitement: “Going to different schools and universities like Greenwich has broadened my horizons. I never knew these places existed, and now I want to go to university myself.”
One of the most valued aspects of the Debate Mate programme at Sydney Russell are the university mentors. Both students and teachers have praised the role of mentors, many of whom are former pupils. “Having ex-pupils as mentors has been a game-changer,” Jo Carter noted. “They connect with our students on a personal level, offering guidance that goes beyond debating.” Students, too, have found their mentors to be a source of inspiration. Naeem, a Year 7 student, said, “Our mentor is really relatable. He understands our background and helps us see what’s possible for our future.”
As Sydney Russell School looks ahead, the impact of Debate Mate continues to grow. The programme has not only improved students’ debating and leadership skills but has also enriched the wider school community. Students who participate in Debate Mate are more likely to engage in other school activities, from elections to discussing current affairs. “Debate Mate has shifted our school culture,” Jo Carter concluded. “Students are more willing to share their thoughts, engage in healthy debates, and take on leadership roles. It’s been an incredible journey, and we are excited to see where it takes our students next.”
Without hesitation, staff and students at Sydney Russell School would recommend the Debate Mate program to other schools. “It’s an experience every student should have,” Myrah emphasised. “Debate Mate has changed my life, and it can do the same for others.”
