The East Kent Schools Together debating event, hosted at King’s, proved transformational for participating pupils. The partnership not only provided staff with valuable training in supporting debating skills but also created life-changing opportunities for pupils who might otherwise have lacked aspiration.
Pupils discovered their voice through the event’s inclusive format, supportive atmosphere, and recognition for effort and improvement. The impact was profound. Miriam Hobbs, Vice Principal at Herne Bay High School shared wonderful success stories of three pupils (names changed for anonymity): Joanna, once unable to speak in class, is now a Cambridge scholar; Samuel, previously unsure of his ability, has become a professional actor; and Elizabeth, inspired to excel, is now a gifted linguist.
Ms Hobbs comments: ‘On behalf of our students, I will always be so grateful to my colleagues at The King’s School for their time and the effort in organising such a welcoming event, and I will always be grateful to have been able to be part of EKST – a school partnership that didn’t just focus on academic booster grouping, but that helped us all remember the whole child and the wider experiences that can help change children’s lives forever. I’m a huge supporter of this partnership and how we can help children break down barriers, work together and really fire aspiration for our local district.’
The event broke down barriers, built lasting friendships, and ignited ambition, showing pupils that through hard work they could truly claim “a seat at the table.” This success story is a testament to the power of the EKST partnership in changing lives beyond the classroom.
Find out more about the East Kent Schools Together partnership here – https://www.ekst.org/