Eight finalists – two representatives from each House - came together for the final of the Inter-House Debating Competition on Friday 9 February. The motion was ‘This House believes that social media makes you more sociable’.

The proposition – Isabella W and Soffia C (Waller) and Zahra K-E and Delight O (Clapham South) – argued that during the coronavirus pandemic, many people depended on social media to keep in contact; that 28% of young people surveyed stated that social media improved their confidence; that students use social media to collaborate on homework assignments; and that university freshers use it to interact with strangers and make new friends. They agreed that too much social media can be harmful, but in moderation it is a force for good.

The opposition – Rachel F and Mahi K (Hartley) and Rebekah W and Angelina O (Clapham North) – pointed out that social media may have been responsible for many children’s anxiety about returning to school after the pandemic; that a majority of people surveyed would now prefer to send a text message than to pick up the phone and speak to a friend or family member; that social media often contributes to young peoples’ negative body image; and that it can cause loneliness, depression and aggressive behaviour - particularly among boys.

The standard of debate was very high, and our judges – Mrs New, Dr Enright and Mr Lovell – were full of praise for the participants.

Congratulations to everyone who took part, and to the overall winners, Zahra and Delight from Clapham South.