Processes
The Institute of Ideas and Pfizer Debating Matters Competition is a national sixth form debating competition taking place in eight regions across the UK. Held during the course of an academic year, the competition begins in the autumn term and ends in the summer term.
Applications taken for the next academic year May - early July
We will advertise that applications are being taken for next years competition in early May, with an entry deadline of early July (exact dates vary each year). Schools who secure a place in the compeititon will be told straight after the entry deadline, before the summer term ends, and well in advance of the new school year the following autumn.
Qualifying Rounds October to December
An evening event hosted by one of the participating schools. Four teams compete in a knockout competition, with each team being guaranteed a minunium of one, and a maximum of two, debates. The winner of each Qualifying Round will secure a place at a Regional Final. The eight regions are currently: Central, East, London & South, North East, North West & North Wales, Scotland, South East, West & South Wales.
Regional Finals March to April
A day-long event held at a high-profile venue in the region. Six teams take part in a streamed format competition, with each school taking part in up to three debates. The winners of each of the eight Regional Finals secure themselves a place at the National Final.
National Final late June/early July
A three-day residential event held at a prestigious national venue in London. The eight Regional Final winners compete in a knockout competition for the title of ‘Debating Matters Winners’.
FURTHER HELP
To see what a Debating Matters debate looks like, see Debate Timing & Structure. Read more about our debate motions and Topic Guides. Throughout the competition year Prizes are awarded.
