Nairn Academy wins 25th anniversary Dewar debate final at Holyrood
Two pupils from Nairn Academy were winners of a prestigious national debating competition, with finals held at the Scottish Parliament yesterday (June 12).
This year’s Donald Dewar Memorial Debate tournament — which is organised by the Law Society and marked its 25th anniversary — saw Charlie Holder and Fraser Cordiner win against teams from Broxburn Academy, Trinity High School and Jordanhill School.
Law Society President Pat Thom and Interim Chief Executive Kevin Lang congratulated each of the finalists and all 60 schools who took part across all stages of the tournament.
Mr Thom said: “Congratulations to Charlie Holder and Fraser Cordiner on winning this year’s tournament.
“The talent all four teams have displayed is nothing short of extraordinary. You should all be very proud of yourselves.
“I am delighted to see the tournament return to the Parliament, particularly as we celebrate its 25th anniversary and honour the competition’s namesake, Donald Dewar.
“I’d like to thank the Scottish Parliament, the Deputy Presiding Officer, Liam McArthur, our judges, sponsors and volunteers for making tonight such a success.
“The Donald Dewar Memorial Debate Tournament is at the heart of the Law Society’s mission to widen young people’s access to the profession. We are incredibly proud that 25 years later, the tournament continues to inspire pupils across Scotland to pursue careers in law and politics.”
The four teams debated the motion “This house would rather receive an education in the year 2000 than in the year 2025”.
Nairn Academy went up against Jordanhill School in the first debate, followed by Broxburn Academy against Trinity High School.
Arguments in favour included that schools were fit for purpose in the year 2000, with the lack of social media improving studying environments, while those against the motion suggested technology and enhanced support models for all students had drastically improved teaching in the year 2025.
The judges praised all of the participants for their debating, naming Sarah Pym and Lena Zielinska from Broxburn Academy as the runners-up.
Nairn Academy received £1,000 and a trophy plate from the Law Society of Scotland and the Glasgow Bar Association, while second place, Broxburn Academy, received £250 thanks to the Glasgow Bar Association.
