Debating
Durham is one of the leaders on the UK debating circuit: every week the Union sends out debaters to compete in competitions all around the UK. In addition to domestic success, the Durham Union annually sends out debaters to the European Universities Debating Championships and the World Universities Debating Championships. With three training streams weekly, internal competitions and guaranteed funding for debaters of all abilities to access external competitions we offer the opportunity for speakers of any or no prior experience to develop and compete around the country. For more information, follow Durham Debating on Instagram and take a look at our term card.
Debate Training
Novice Debate Practice
Timing
- Monday 19:00
Location
- Elvet Riverside ER152
Intermediate Debate Practice
Timing
- Tuesday 19:00
Location
- Elvet Riverside ER205
Advanced Debate Practice
Timing
- Tuesday 19:00
Location
- Elvet Riverside ER205
Sparring
We run sparring sessions on Thursday at 19:00 in Elvet Riverside ER152. It’s the best opportunity to put your skills to the test and get feedback from Durham’s best debaters.
Competitions
The Durham Union sends members to universities throughout the UK and Internationally to compete. The Union has an excellent reputation with tournament wins in Bristol, Manchester and Sheffield as well as Strong international results in Malaysia, Croatia and Ireland.
Each year the Durham Union hosts two big competitions, the Durham IV and Durham Schools. The Durham IV is one of the best university debating competitions in the country. And Durham Schools which is the world’s largest residential school-level debate competition.
I came into Durham having never debated competitively before, and since then thanks to the training and opportunities on offer represented Durham in competitions across the country and across Europe, and have made friends for life both in Durham and from across the world
Matthew Midlane
Socialising
Debating isn’t just about arguing. Only at debating competitions will you be able meet hundreds of other students from around the world – debating, socialising and staying with them. You have the opportunity to travel the country, travel the world, have fun and debate at the same time. These unique experiences are only available with a Union membership.
Want to learn more? Check out our Facebook or Instagram, or view our debating guide here.