Debates sharpen our reasoning skills,
training us to distinguish right from wrong,
and what’s true from what’s false.
The AISL Harrow Debate Championship returned
for a much-anticipated second edition
on 14-15 December 2024,
with a higher caliber and even bigger prizes!
With participation from 9 out of
the 11 AISL Harrow Schools, （HIS Shenzhen Qianhai, Beijing, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Haikou,
Chongqing, Nanning, Hengqin and HHKCS)
the Championship saw more than 500 students showcase their mental agility and expressive prowess,
with humility, inclusivity, and a passion for giving back to society that won over the judges and audience.
Watch highlights of the tournament
Dive into the scene with us
In this tournament,
our young debaters delved into hot topics that were
closely related to youth and future social trends.
From the blind box craze, early-age studying abroad, consumerism culture, and
retirees re-entering the workforce,
the participants explored the issues
from opposing sides.
Deeply rooted in everyday life,
these topics allowed the students to
analyse issues from different angles,
fostering their habits of empathy, observation,
and reflection in daily life.
By learning how to persuade an audience
with reason and move them with emotion,
our young debaters were trained to think on their feet and
adapt their communication strategy according to the audience’s and opponent’s reactions…
Through real-life practice, they have honed their information processing, oratorical,
interactive and persuasion skills.
Congratulations！
As the host school, we are proud that
our students achieved outstanding results
in the competition:
Junior Division (Years 7 & 8): Champions!
Eva
Year 8
During this debate competition, I was most impressed by my encounter with the opposing third speaker in the semifinals. I learnt a great deal from him, especially about composure and adaptability. Our team ultimately won the championship, which is a testament to everyone’s hard work. I wish continued success to all!
Jolin
Year 8
From uncertainty to passionate rebuttals in the finals, my journey has been nothing short of remarkable. I evolved from a novice handling data to confidently presenting it in the finals. These changes stand as a testament to time and experience, proving that the effort and dedication invested in each match culminated in our final success. I transitioned from the opposing third speaker to the affirmative second speaker in the finals. As a result, our Harrow Shenzhen junior team emerged as the youngest dark horse in the competition. Debate has not only sharpened my language skills but also taught me the value of teamwork and leadership. Our logistics team provided invaluable data, making our success a collective achievement.
George
Year 8
Participating in the Chinese Debate Competition has been incredibly rewarding. The impressive performances from both teams deepened my appreciation for the power of language and the excitement of intellectual exchange. Throughout the debate process, I expanded my perspectives and gained a deeper understanding of societal issues. This competition also highlighted the importance of teamwork, as every step, from preparation to the debate, reflected our collective effort. Special thanks to our mentor, Ms. Zhong! This invaluable experience has greatly benefitted me. I eagerly anticipate next year’s debates!
Vic
Year 8
I am deeply grateful to the teachers for giving me the opportunity to participate in this competition. I learnt many valuable lessons throughout the event. The composure of my debate partners inspired me. Even when faced with unexpected challenges, they maintained clarity and stayed in control. Their sense of honour impressed me, as they dedicated themselves fully to securing a higher ranking for the team. Their meticulous attention to detail ensured that no nuance was overlooked, which is a quality I greatly admire. This experience will be an important asset on my path to growth.
Senior Division (Years 9 & 10): Runners-up!
Ella
Year 9
I remember the day of the finals when we were all preparing with cups of coffee. The atmosphere was tense but filled with anticipation. Although we didn’t win the championship, I feel proud knowing that we took on greater responsibilities and challenges after last year’s runner-up finish. What matters is not the outcome. It is the continuous learning, improvement, and growth we experienced over these past few months. Regardless of whether we won or lost, this journey has been a bittersweet, yet precious and unforgettable memory!
Cindy
Year 9
This was my first time participating in such a large debate competition. I started out feeling lost, but with the support and guidance of my teammates and teachers, I gradually gained confidence. Half an hour before the finals, I noticed everyone was busy organizing materials. Despite the rush, they still took the time to comfort and encourage one another. At that moment, I realised that, regardless of the outcome, our efforts and teamwork had already made us true champions. This competition has not only fostered my personal growth but also strengthened my teamwork skills and provided countless unforgettable moments.
Nicole
Year 10
As a student from Harrow Shenzhen, I am honoured to represent our school in this debate competition. My teammates and I prepared diligently in advance. When I heard our school being announced as an honourable mention, I felt proud of the efforts we all put in. However, there were areas where we could have performed better. Overall, this debate journey has been rewarding and has enhanced our debating skills.
Evanie
Year 10
Although it’s a bit disappointing that our team only secured the runner-up position, I often reminisce about those brilliant moments. In the lead-up to the event, we collected information and rehearsed repeatedly. Each argument was carefully crafted, and every line was designed to be precise and impactful. Despite the challenges we faced during preparation, we felt proud of each other’s efforts the moment we stood on the podium.
Individual Awards: 8 students
are named Best Debater.
Year 8: George, Amy, Jolin, Amy
Year 9: Cindy, Ella, Nicole, Lan
Chelly Dong
Upper School Head of Chinese
The students demonstrated exceptional critical thinking and teamwork throughout the debate competition. From argumentation to rebuttal, each participant showed confidence, composure, and courage. The competition not only refined their expressive abilities and logical reasoning but also nurtured the skills of active listening and respecting others’ viewpoints. I encourage our students to apply the insights gained from this experience to their future studies and lives. This will help foster a lasting passion for knowledge. May they rise as responsible and insightful young leaders in this new era.
Sara Zhong
Upper School Chinese Teacher
From preparing for the preliminary rounds to ultimately taking the stage in the finals, three months may seem neither long nor short. However, it is more than enough time to witness transformation. Throughout this journey, I have seen the dedication and growth of each child. They actively sought extra practice to refine their debating skills, coming together to create mind maps that sparked insightful discussions. This not only reflects their genuine passion for debate but also highlights their commitment to teamwork and unity. The victory belongs to each member of this united and striving team!
Lily Liu
Upper School Chinese Teacher
Congratulations to all the students for securing both the champion and runner-up positions in the competition! Your hard work and dedication have been recognised, making this a remarkable achievement worth celebrating! The courage and competitive spirit you displayed are truly commendable. I hope you continue to embody these remarkable qualities and achieve even greater success in your future studies and lives!
Congratulations to Harrow Shenzhen
on winning the Best Organization Award!
Kevin Qian
Chinese Principal, Harrow Shenzhen
Plato once said, “The art of debate is not to vanquish one’s opponent, but to seek the truth.” I encourage our students to embody the Harrow values of “courage, honour, humility, and fellowship.” Let critical thinking guide you in your path ahead.
思辨的过程虽然可能充满
立场、观点和策略的差异
但我们始终在倾听、理解，并相互学习。
我们坚信，建立独立观点、逻辑思维
有助于更全面、更客观地认识这个世界。
Debating may involve different viewpoints
and strategies,
but it also makes us listen, understand
and learn from each other.
We strongly believe that by forming independent points of view and logical thinking, we can understand this world more holistically and objectively.
Harrow Shenzhen extends the warmest of welcomes to all prospective parents and pupils at its Open Events. You will have the chance to meet key staff, visit our outstanding facilities, interact with current pupils and see for yourselves just what makes our School so different.
Please find the upcoming dates of our events below:
Event : Open Events
Date : 10 am – 11am, Friday
Feel free to contact the Admissions Department admissions@harrowshenzhen.cn or +86 755 8898 7616 for further information.
