News In Focus

Society launches latest Donald Dewar tournament

13 September 2012

The annual Donald Dewar Memorial Debating Tournament for schools has been launched by the Law Society of Scotland.

Up to 128 teams can compete in the opening rounds, and the Society is encouraging those who may be new to debating, as well as those with previous experience, to take part in the 2012-13 competition.

Solicitors or anyone with experience of debating can also get involved if they are interested in acting as a judge at the opening and regional heats, particularly at schools in rural areas.

Heather McKendrick, education and training development officer at the Society said: “We always have a fantastic response from school debating teams right across the country, but we also want to encourage those schools which may be fairly new to debating and competing to enter. There’s every chance that they can follow in the footsteps of some of our previous contestants and make it right through to the final, as it’s not necessarily those teams with most experience who take home the cup.

“Debating is good fun and it also helps pupils gain new skills and confidence in putting forward cohesive and persuasive arguments, which is not only useful for their studies at school and beyond, but throughout their working lives.”

Publishers Hodder Gibson remain as tournament sponsors this year and donate educational books to the value of £500, which are shared between the winners and runners-up. The winners also receive the tournament trophy and £1,000 for their school.

The closing date for entry is 19 October 2012, with the first heats due to start in November. Further information about competing and judging, and the online form for submission for all teams can be found in the "schools" section under ‘’education and careers" on the Society’s website at www.lawscot.org.uk.