Inverclyde pupils win battle of minds as Team Scotland secures world debating title

TWO talented pupils from an Inverclyde school beat rivals from across the globe in an international battle of minds.

Sophie H and Callum H, part of St Columba’s class of 2024, helped Team Scotland take home the World Schools Debating Competition trophy following a hotly contested event in the Serbian capital of Belgrade last month.

Groups from almost 70 countries participated in the annual gathering – and the Scottish youngsters made it through to the grand final where they overcame Bulgaria in a 7-2 split.

It was the first time that Scotland has claimed the main title in more than a decade, and only the fifth victory for the nation’s brightest sparks since the inaugural event in 1988.

Celebrating the success, the independent Kilmacolm secondary school said in a social media post: “Debating has a long tradition at St Columba’s thanks to the dedication and expert guidance of Mrs Janet Stevens and we were delighted to see former pupils Maxine M (Class of 2013) and Jamie B (Class of 2018) working as Team Scotland coaches.

“Huge congratulations to Sophie, Callum and everyone who was instrumental in Team Scotland’s victory. An incredible achievement!”

The competition sees students discuss a variety of topics from international relations to economics and sport.