Key topics for Lancashire's future have been discussed by schoolchildren during 'The Great Lancashire Debate.'

And a talented Burscough schoolgirl's been recognised as the best individual speaker with Emily Ellerton (right) from Burscough Village Primary among the honours.

https://burscough.lancsngfl.ac.uk/news/2023-11-07-the-great-lancashire-debate

The competition, which celebrates schools across Lancashire, Blackburn with Darwen and Blackpool, culminated in a grand final at County Hall in Preston on 7 and 8 November.

The winners were Barden Primary School, who spoke about vaping; and Balshaw's Church of England High School, who debated crime and poverty.


Other important issues discussed that affect the county, and how they could be resolved by 2050, included littering, homelessness, the provision of SEN places, early years access to books, equal opportunities for school children, racism in schools, and air pollution.

The other finalists were: Eldon Primary School (Highly Commended School); Edenfield Church of England Primary School (Highly Commended School); Burscough Village Primary School; St Gregory's Catholic Primary School and Westhead Lathom St James' Church of England Primary School.

County Councillor Phillippa Williamson, leader of Lancashire County Council said: "It was a very successful first year hosting The Great Lancashire Debate, and fascinating to hear from the brightest young minds in Lancashire.

"Listening to their ideas will have a long-lasting impact as we can use this important feedback to help shape future work on Lancashire 2050.
"We'd like to thank all of the schools who took part and spent their time preparing such well-researched viewpoints.

"We were so impressed with their debating skills and it made for a very hard decision to choose the two sets of winners. We are looking forward to hosting the competition again in the future."

County Councillor Jayne Rear, cabinet member for Education and Skills added: "Well done to all of the schools, especially our winners and best individual speakers.

"The competition was fierce and they all put forward really thought-provoking arguments."