What is the Great Debate?

The Great Debate is a public speaking competition where students have 5 minutes to present their speech arguing their answer to the question.

Over the past couple of years the competition has been growing in size, to encourages many young people to get involved as possible and to ensure as many local stories as possible are included we have decided to have twice as many heats as possible – in fact over 45 will be taking place around the country. Therefore, following the heat stage there will be a semi-final stage held virtually to select the 24 participants that will take part in the final in March 2025.

The competition for the next academic year will start in the autumn term of 2024 and the question being asked is: How can your local history tell a global story?

To answer this question students are encouraged to look at people, places, events, and initiatives that have happened in the past in their local area or one that they feel a connection to which has gone on to have a global role or impact?

They might want to examine, local campaign initiatives from the past, writers from their own area who affected events, literature or politics or inventions and technological developments.

• Download our Rules and Student Guide

Why take part?

The competition is an ideal opportunity for students to gain valuable experience in speaking to an audience and developing their debating skills, confidence and self-esteem.

The winner and runners-up of the competition will receive a cash prize. All finalists will also receive free student membership of the Historical Association.

• Read our 'Guidance for teachers' (PDF) to get an idea on how to introduce public speaking and the Great Debate to your students.
• Watch our video on why you should take part: What is the Great Debate?

Find your local Heat

More locations to be added

Please find your local heat below on the interactive map. We will be adding more heats to the map in September. If you cannot find a heat to attend please contact greatdebate@history.org.uk

To register for the competition contact the host of the heat you would like to attend to let them know you are interested.

Watch the 2024 winner for inspiration

If you have any questions take a look at our FAQs or email greatdebate@history.org.uk