All Ireland Debating Team - World Schools Debating Championships 2025
Congratulations to last year’s Transition Year Student Sophie Bell who has received a place on this year’s All Ireland Debating Team. Team Ireland will be taking part in the World Schools Debating Championships (WSDC) 2025, in Panama in July 2025. Each team is composed of five students . Team Ireland has traditionally performed at a high level at the competition, reaching the semi-finals and finals on multiple occasions, and winning the competition once.
Sophie took part in the Munster Regional Trials in September. On completion of the Connacht ,Ulster and Leinster trials 20 students were selected ,who then participated in 4 weeks of training from the coaches of Team Ireland.
At Regional Trials, students participated in 2-3 impromptu debates (20 mins preparation; 5 minute speeches) where they competed as individuals.
Sophie progressed through the Regional Trials, and, as a result,was invited to compete in National Trials in person. This took place in Dublin on Sunday, November 3rd. As a result Sophie has succeeded in gaining a place on the All Ireland Team of five students.
We wish her every success on this Great Adventure.