Upon arrival, even before the debating began, OSA students took the initiative to introduce themselves to NCS students - shaking hands, cracking jokes, and being incredible Spires ambassadors. Throughout the competition, the spirit of sportsmanship and mutual respect was constantly upheld, for which our students deserve the highest of praise.

The first debate revolved around the use of mobile phones amongst adolescents - should they be banned? Milton opened for the OSA team with unflappable composure. He eloquently defended the use of phones for their access to information and ability to facilitate communication. This calm, firm and erudite performance was followed up by incredible speeches by the entire OSA team. Highlights include: Anas waxing lyrical about the dangers of misinformation, Trixie's comments on the modern day obsession with social media aesthetics and Pippa's mature discussion about the nature of human connection. Pippa's deadpan delivery throughout ("oh, to be young again!") had everyone in the room, adults included, in stitches.

The second "unseen" debate threw the students into the controversial topic of pineapple on pizza. All sides were able to retain their sense of humour while constructing logical arguments - a fun way of wrapping up the day.

Ultimately, the panel of judges decided that NCS had won the day, although the voting could not have been closer! Special recognition was given to both Izzies by the judges, for being amongst the strongest individual performers. Every single student was friendly, mature and committed to representing OSA to the very best of their ability. I could not be prouder - next year, OSA will reclaim the title!