Programmes for schools
Schools and young people are at the heart of what we do. Central to our mission is a commitment to working to narrow gaps in opportunity and achievement and enable every child to discover their voice.
Schools' Mace Debating Competition
The oldest and largest debating competition for schools in the world, offering students in S4 and above the opportunity to debate controversial topics and current affairs.
Schools' Public Speaking Competitions
We run two single-speaker competitions: the ESU Scotland Schools’ Public Speaking Competition, for years S4 to S6 and the ESU Scotland Speakers’ Corner Competition for S1 to S3 pupils.
St. Andrew's Day Tournament
The St Andrew’s Day Tournament, held annually at The Scottish Parliament, offers S3-S6 pupils to compete in three rounds of debate, culminating in a Grand Final in the main Debating Chamber.
Speak up Scotland
Our national programme delivering debating workshops to state schools around Scotland. To get involved, to register interest, or to find out more, please get in touch.
Debating Workshops for Pupils
We offer all kinds of debates workshops for pupils, from full-class debates, to coaching for competitions. As well as debating skills and techniques, we include games and activities to build confidence.
Debating Workshops & CPD Courses for Teachers
Whether you are new to debating, or you’d like advanced coaching for your team, we can help. We offer a full-day and twilight courses for teachers on classroom and extra-curricular debating.