SRC Students and Future Leaders Engage in Stormont Political Debates

Students from Southern Regional College A-Level Government and Politics class attended Stormont last month to engage in healthy debates with 11 schools from across Northern Ireland on “Who is to blame for the slow progress in the peace process?”  The debate has proved timely, with the Northern Ireland Assembly passing a motion calling on the voting age for young people in Northern Ireland to be lowered to 16 years.  This is encouraging for future generations of young people, who are seeking to be engaged in politics.

The ten students were divided into groups and encouraged to debate views from both sides of the political agenda.   During each debate, viewpoints were challenged to demonstrate how bias can easily form arguments and the importance of evidence to support views and counter arguments.  

SRC student Kassie Blanton received the opportunity to grill politicians Matthew O’Toole (SDLP) and Robbie Butler (UUP) and did not shy away from the opportunity, making the most of this chance to engage directly with political figures. 

The purpose of Friday’s debate and follow up questions to politicians, was participation in Good Relations Week, while also building and enhancing the critical thinking and problem-solving skills of all students who took part.   After this healthy debate students were invited to tour the Stormont building which included a visit to the Assembly Chamber.

Friday’s debate and questioning was organised by the UK charity Parallel Histories.  Parallel Histories offers students new ways to study the history of conflict, history which is often still contested, controversial and relevant.

Emily Boyd, Lecturer of A-Level Religious Studies and Government and Politics at Southern Regional College commented:

“Taking part in the Parallel Histories Conference was a great experience for our students as they debated topics against peers from other schools.  This experience provided students with additional skills in preparing and presenting coherent arguments to support their views”