Laois school thrilled to win semi-final place

THREE students from Wolfhill NS have talked their way into the county semi-final of a debating contest, with a winning performance today.

Terrific trio Jack (captain), Will and Kevin showcased their skills to scoop success, in the second round of the Concern debating competition.

The senior schoolboys overcame an excellent Newtown NS team to defeat the motion that ‘We should only buy Fair-Trade Products’, after a considered and very informative debate.

It was truly a team effort for Wolfhill NS, as the rural two-teacher school has only 12 students. There are six children in the senior class, which comprises one fifth class and five sixth class pupils.

While the debating team has three members and a timekeeper, Callum, all six students are involved in the development and research needed to create the rebuttals and speeches.

After the second round debate on Thursday 23 January, the adjudicator complimented both school teams on their research and analysis of the information presented, which he said was factual and referenced to a high standard.

Thrilled with the wonderful win, Wolfhill NS teacher Aoife Amond said: “We are over the moon and incredibly proud of our pupils, as they have worked so hard and are competing with schools that have many more pupils than we have.

“The Board of Management, staff and community are immensely proud of the children and wish them the very best of luck in the semi-final.” The school established a Debating Society in 2015 and participates annually in the Concern debating competition and inter-school debates.

Ms Amond said the debates are very valuable and worthwhile, as they allow children to hone their critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

She said: “The school's success in the Concern debating competition is a source of great pride to the school community. Year on year, the pupils have refined their skills and experience as they supported teams from previous years.” 

An inclusive co-educational school set in beautiful countryside, Wolfhill NS is currently accepting enrolments for all classes for September 2025. Further details are available on the school website at www.wolfhilns.com or 087 2076140.