Students debate world issues

SIXTY Warrington students got a chance to debate world issues at a model UN conference.
The youngsters from Priestley College were joined by peers from Ashton Sixth Form College to argue on behalf of their nominated countries about matters such as the Russia/Ukraine conflict, Palestine and religious freedoms.
Senior tutor Mark Salmon said: “It was an excellent opportunity for the students to be stretched and challenged by debating some heavyweight issues.”
Students representing the nations of Jamaica and the Republic of Korea won the overall debates as the “most effective country”.
Michael Moran, formerly of Cardinal Newman RC High School, Reece Moore, formerly of The Grange School and Duncan Cathie, a former pupil at Golborne High School, were honoured for “most effective lobbying”.
First years Aoife Goldsmith and Holly Roach won awards for most persuasive speaking in the debates.
James Ross was commended for his work as a representative of the Republic of Korea.
Former Priestley student Charlie Brittlebank, who is now studying English at King’s College London, returned to college to chair the General Assembly part of the conference which was organised by Priestley’s director of student services Fran Evans.
Among those taking part were members of Priestley’s graduate course, which is designed to prepare students for places at Oxford, Cambridge and the Russell Group universities.
In March they will be attending a national UN conference in Birmingham when they will put their debating skills to the test against other colleges from across the UK.
“It is a great opportunity to pit their wits and debating skills against others and I am sure they will be motivated to continue these discussions away from the conference,” said Mr Salmon