St Christopher's Sustainability Conference - Debate Finalists!

Students from Hope Academy were invited to Lancashire's largest school's sustainability conference on Wednesday 9th July, to showcase their sustainability app project and take part in a sustainability debate and workshops.

Jack Beswick (Y13) and Alex Forber (Y9) came top of the group stage; beating nine other schools overall, and were subsequently entered in the finalist debate in front of hundreds of students  and sustainability experts across the country and representatives from Germany. The judges and the Eco Schools charity commented on how well they had presented their arguments. They were a credit to themselves and to Hope Academy.
 

Jack and Alex before the final

Their arguments for the debate were very challenging, yet were able to confidently put across their points. In the final debate motion Alex and Jack had to oppose, “Properly harnessed, renewable resources can supply all our energy needs."

During the group stage they had to propose, “Fracking is the only solution to our energy needs” and oppose “Local production of food is the only way to a sustainable future”.

They were narrowly beaten by the other finalist team, but showed great passion throughout the contest.

Hope Students showcasing their app project at the market place

It was a very special and proud moment for Hope Academy, especially for Jack and Alex - well done to them and everyone involved.