Dear Parents,
This week at Rise to Lead, the children took on a brand-new challenge as we introduced debating in a fun, supportive and age-appropriate way, and they rose to it beautifully.
Session Focus: Debate Basics
We began with a short mini workshop on what a debate is and how it works. The children learned that debating is not about arguing, but about sharing ideas, listening to others, and explaining your thoughts clearly. We talked about taking turns, respecting different opinions, and being brave enough to speak up.
The children then took part in a series of short debate rounds in their teams, with time to prepare, speak, and vote. Topics were designed to be fun and relatable, helping everyone feel confident to contribute. It was wonderful to see how engaged they were; many children who don’t always rush to the front chose to speak, and others showed great listening and encouragement skills.
Celebrating Effort & Values
In a very unusual (and happy!) outcome, all three teams finished with exactly the same number of points, 10 each. This meant we had three winning teams, which felt like a lovely reflection of the teamwork, effort, and fairness shown throughout the session.
Half Term Break
A quick reminder that next week is half-term, so there will be no session. We hope the children enjoy a well-earned break.
Looking Ahead: Final Showcase Preparation
Before finishing this week, we introduced the children to what we’ll be working towards after half term: their final presentation and showcase.
Each child will prepare a short presentation on a topic of their choice
This is an individual project, but children are very welcome to pair up with a friend if they prefer
Presentations can be up to 3 minutes, but can also be much shorter if that feels right
Even simply coming on stage to say their name and something they enjoy is absolutely fine
During the remaining five sessions after half term, we’ll support the children step by step. They’ll be able to use laptops, projectors, presentations on screen, whiteboards, props and prompts, and we’ll help them shape and practise their ideas gently and confidently.
The final session will be a celebration of the term, where children will present, receive their certificates and medals, and we’ll celebrate everything they’ve achieved.
Final Showcase – Your Feedback Needed
Parents will be invited to attend the final showcase. Initially, I planned to hold this straight after the final session, but I understand that this may not work for everyone. I’d really appreciate your feedback on the best timing.
Please reply to this email and let me know which option works best for you:
Monday 23 March 2026, 5:00–6:00 pm
Friday 27 March 2026, 5:00–6:00 pm
Saturday 28 March 2026, from 2:30 or 3:00 pm (1 hour)
I’ll go with the option that receives the most responses.
Missed our earlier updates?
If you haven’t seen our newsletters from Week 1, Week 2, Week 3 or Week 4 please do check your spam or junk folder just in case. You can also find them here:
Thank you, as always, for your continued trust and support. It’s a real joy to watch the children grow in confidence each week.
Warm regards,
Orgesa
Founder, Rise to Lead
Configur Academy
Wesbite: www.risetolead.uk
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