Bingham Cup Victory

Ashmole has proudly won the UK’s largest state school debating competition, the prestigious Bingham Cup, cementing our place as one of the top state debating schools in the country. This incredible achievement follows a year of outstanding success, including strong performances at the highly competitive Oxford Schools tournament. Our students have shown exceptional skill, determination, and teamwork, and this victory is a testament to their dedication and hard work.

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Success at the Harrow Schools Nosić Competition

In addition to winning the UK’s largest state school debating competition, Ashmole also reached the prestigious Gold Final at the Harrow Schools Nosić Competition. This achievement further highlights the strength and consistency of our debating team, who have continued to excel at some of the most competitive events in the country.

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Student Recognition and Judging

One of our students was also invited to judge the Brighton Schools Annual Debating Cup, where she served as a breaking judge — a recognition of her outstanding debating expertise and reputation.

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England National Debating Team Auditions

Two of our students are currently in the final stage of auditions for the England National Debating Team, following on from four Ashmole students who participated in Team England’s development squads earlier this year.

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A Year of Achievements

These achievements are part of a bigger picture, with our students having competed in over ten national debating competitions—an incredible feat considering the club was only established in January 2025. On Sunday 28th September, two of our students secured second place in the Novice Finals at Dulwich College. Our team is already gearing up for upcoming competitions at LSC, the University of Cambridge, the English-Speaking Union, and more.

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Celebrating Success with the Cambridge Footlights

To celebrate these successes, Mr. Sergio organised an improv comedy workshop for the debate team, delivered by the Cambridge Footlights—whose alumni include Stephen Fry, Hugh Laurie, Sacha Baron Cohen, David Mitchell, and Robert Webb. We were honoured to have this opportunity, which had a significant impact on the debate club, helping students enhance their public speaking skills, confidence, and stage presence.

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This is part of Ashmole’s ongoing Oracy initiative to increase active participation and build students’ confidence in navigating society. This year, the Ashmole Debate Team has reached new heights, running three separate training sessions for beginners, intermediates, and advanced debaters, open to all year groups. The society is entirely student-led, with elected co-chairs, a treasurer, a secretary, and its own constitution. This innovative model sets Ashmole apart from other state schools across the country.