Healthy democracies need well-informed citizens who understand the democratic process and have the skills and confidence to participate. The National Youth Parliament Competition helps bring to life the process of parliament, government and politics, by offering young people the opportunity to set up and video their own parliamentary debates and to reflect on how laws are made.
Students will take on the roles of Government, Opposition and backbench MPs, recreate the parliamentary chamber, and make a 20 minute video of their debate on a mock bill. Videos are judged by MPs in Westminster.
You will develop skills of research, discussion, public speaking, analysis, communication and team work. You will develop thinking about current political, moral and social issues and events by analysing information and its sources.
Aside from the competition learn the rules of debating and master the art of speaking with confidence in front of audiences on a whole range of themes you may (or may not) know anything about. If you think debating might be for you, you should have a broad interest in current affairs, a natural sense of justice and you should not take yourself too seriously. You should be prepared to argue with passion when the occasion demands but equally ready to defend the indefensible and play devil's advocate with conviction if necessary. Don't' worry if you are not yet the most confident speaker, for debating will help you build those techniques but you will need a sense of humour, imagination and an argumentative streak!
Co-ordinator: K McAlpine
Where: L13
When: Wednesday p.m.
How long: Termly