Mayfield School’s senior debating team has secured a place in the prestigious English‑Speaking Union (ESU) National Final, earning their position as one of the top 12 debating schools in the country.
Following a series of impressive performances, Sixth Form students Ava, Alexa and Alice won the ESU Regional Final, hosted at Mayfield on Thursday afternoon. They will now go on to represent Sussex and Kent at the National Final in London this May.
The Regional Final brought together six competing schools — including Benenden, Bennett, Radnor House, Roedean and Worth — for an afternoon of rigorous, high‑level debate. With only one team able to progress, the competition proved both challenging and intellectually demanding.
Mayfield’s trio faced Benenden in a compelling clash over the motion: “This House would ban private healthcare for procedures already covered by the NHS.” Demonstrating exceptional composure and clarity, the team responded confidently under pressure. Judges praised their delivery, teamwork and ability to engage critically with complex issues.
Reflecting on the achievement, speaker Ava said: “It was really challenging to get to this stage. Of the 375 schools who began the competition, we’ve reached the final 12 in the country. I couldn’t be prouder of our team and everything we’ve achieved together.”
Deborah Bligh, Headmistress, added: “We are immensely proud of Ava, Alexa and Alice. Their achievement reflects not only their exceptional talent and commitment, but also the spirit of intellectual curiosity that is so central to life at Mayfield. Reaching the National Final is a remarkable accolade, and we are delighted to see their hard work recognised.”
The school now looks forward to supporting the team as they prepare for the national stage in May.
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