Bite the Ballot hosted a debate at Wilmington Academy asking schools to discuss political participation.

Conservative MP for Dartford, Gareth Johnson, Head of Dartford Council, Jeremy Kite and student Daina Brown were on the panel to decide who had the strongest argument. The winner would get a tour of Parliament.

All schools called for more political participation. The schools had 30mins to prepare a 5 minute argument. There was also some time for questions and answers.

The participating schools were Wilmington Grammar School for Girls, Dartford Grammar School for Boys, Longfield Academy, Wilmington Academy, and Dartford Technology College.

And the winner was…Longfield Academy!

Daina Brown, one of the founders of Bite the Ballot in April 2010 said

“All schools gave really strong arguments but Longfield Academy gave the strongest. They spoke passionately about the issues that they cared about and captured their audience. We were very impressed with them.”

Fred Bosanquet, a History teacher from Dartford Grammar School for Boys team, said:

“I think this is a really good idea. Debating is a very good skill and it gets students arguing in a structured way.”

Hasan Reza, DGSB, 16, said:

“It’s nice to go up against new people”

Victoria Webb, Wilmington Grammar School for Girls, Deputy Head teacher:

“Looking at the students it is amazing how involved they want to be in politics. I think we forget how strong their views are.”

Bronagh McPartland, Longfield Academy, English teacher:

“This is a wonderful opportunity for schools to come together and kids to get involved.”

Lee Coxton, Longfield Academy, Business teacher:

“It is a great idea to raise awareness for young people and give them a voice and see them listened to.”

Thomas Glass ‘Burgess, 14, Longfield Academy:

“It was really successful and I felt confident. We should do more things like this. I have made some new friends.”

Gareth Johnson MP for Dartford:

“I have been involved with Bite the Ballot for some time. It is fascinating watching the way it has developed and grown over recent years. I am very proud they have come from Dartford. This is a good idea. Michael Sani has kept the momentum going. He has really captured people’s imaginations and has worked very hard on it.”

Jeremy Kite Leader of the council:

“I have learned from today that we are both on the same side because you want to be more involved in politics and so do we. It is very healthy to see so many people in the room talking about politics”

Congratulations to everyone involved and we look forward to seeing you at the next debate!