England is the only country to have participated in the World Schools’ Debating Competition every year since the tournament was founded in 1989.

From 1999 to 2019, England’s participation at the World Schools Debating Championships was supported by the English Speaking Union.

Debate England was founded in 2020 to continue, and build on, the proud tradition of England’s participation in the World Schools Debating Championships – and to ensure that both teams are open to the best young debaters in those nations regardless of background or opportunity, by working with schools and teachers to inspire and support all young people, aiming for open access to the chance to debate at a global level and ensuring each team is diverse and representative.

Our Trustees

Debate England is run exclusively by volunteers. Our Trustees are:

• T O’Reilly (Chair)
• I Fidderman
• B Jasper
• D Newman
• L Collier
• R Robinson

Debate England is the operating name of National Debate Team, a charity registered in England (no. 1191456).