National Secondary Schools Debating Competition 2025

The schools were tasked with submitting an essay and debating on the motion "The House believes that graffiti in public spaces should be encouraged" Teams consisted of four members, each having the opportunity to speak for 3-4 minutes.

In the lead up to the competition, students were asked to prepare and submit a 1,000-word essay on the above and to present on the day. Once the shortlisted schools had presented, they were narrowed down to two remaining finalists. The finalists then engaged in an intense debate, either proposing or opposing the motion "This House believes that smart phones make us less intelligent".

Finalists on the day of the event were Coláiste Íde and Ardgillan College, with Coláiste Íde taking the title

Head of Law Faculty at Griffith College Dublin, Karen Sutton, said:

"The Schools Debating Competition provides an exceptional platform for students to flourish, developing crucial research abilities, refining drafting techniques, and mastering communication skills within a supportive and collaborative environment. This year's participants impressed us with their outstanding caliber of work, showcasing remarkable enthusiasm, unwavering commitment, and extraordinary potential that will undoubtedly propel them forward in their academic journeys. The Faculty of Law was thrilled to host this prestigious event once again and extends heartfelt congratulations to all brilliant participants, their dedicated teachers, and their supporters".

To find out more about our undergraduate CAO Law Programmes, please visit: https://www.griffith.ie/find-a-course-results/undergraduate/law