Woodham Academy is launching a new Debating Society to offer students the opportunity gain confidence in public speaking and improve their research and team- working skills.

The Debating Society is the latest addition to Woodham Academy’s extensive extra-curricular activities programme.

Woodham Academy teacher Richard Gore said: “Joining the Debating Society will help students gain confidence in public speaking, research skills, and teamwork. Membership of the society will also look great on a CV when students apply for colleges and universities.”

Initially open to Year 10 students, the Debating Society will offer a series of research sessions, workshops and mock debates, followed by three internal competitions in front of adult and student audiences.

The Debating Society will then expand to include students from years 7 to 9 and go on join national competitions.