Tuesday evening was filled with fascinating French debate, when we attended the Regional French Debating Competition at St Paul’s Girls' School.

We began the round-robin style tournament defending total freedom of expression in music. Despite our best efforts to convey the importance of artistic autonomy, right to free speech, and the improbability of malicious music finding a significant platform, a composed and confident King’s College side emerged victorious.

Westminster presented the next challenge, against whom we argued that Western governments shouldn’t be prohibited from exploiting fossil fuel deposits. A heated discussion over economy and environment ensued, with clarity of expression and convincing case studies giving us the edge. 

Our fluency and spontaneity progressed with the evening, leading to a solid win against Merchant Taylor’s. Successfully arguing that France should allow all migrants into England, making reference to the Calais Jungle, we were delighted to end the day on a high.

Overall, the experience has been incredibly rewarding; we’ve developed not only our French, but the ability to think critically and spontaneously in pressurised environments. A massive merci beaucoup to Eleanor, for making all the practice sessions really enjoyable, suggesting so many thought-provoking arguments, and just generally hyping us up! We are incredibly grateful and couldn’t have done it without you! 

By Eliza and Emily (L6)