The Big Debate 2025
The Ladies’ College is set to host its fourth annual Big Debate, where participants will engage with the motion: ‘This house believes that trying to have it all sets women up for failure.’
The debate, which takes place on 3rd November between 6:30-8pm at The Ladies’ College, will be chaired by Sir Richard Collas, retired Bailiff of Guernsey and former Governor of The Ladies’ College. Megan Pullum, KC, HM Attorney General, will propose the motion alongside lower-sixth student, Isabel Round. Deputy Lindsay de Sausmarez, President of Policy and Resources, will oppose the motion with upper-sixth student, Bailey Austin.
Daniele Harford-Fox, Principal at The Ladies’ College, said: “When I was at a girls’ school in the 1990’s we were told we could have it all – conquer the world and be back in time to make tea! But when I speak to my friends now many feel that as soon as they became mothers, that balance felt almost undoable. This motion challenges us to think about the expectations we place on women and how these shape the choices they make and the burdens they take on. For our students, it’s an opportunity to grapple with ideas that are both personal and societal.
“Events like the Big Debate give our students the chance to think deeply, challenge assumptions, and express their ideas with confidence.”
Deputy Lindsay de Sausmarez added: “I’m delighted to be taking part in this year’s Big Debate. The question of whether women can or should ‘have it all’ goes right to the heart of conversations about differing societal expectations of men and women, equity of opportunities, and how we structure our society. I’m looking forward to exploring some of the tensions between these aspects with the students and hearing their perspectives on what the future might look like for them.”
Megan Pullum KC added: “I hope this motion will challenge us to pause and reflect on what ‘having it all’ really means. True empowerment isn’t about doing everything – it’s about choosing what matters to us and defining success on our own terms.”
The event is open to the public and has a limited number of tickets.
Channel Eye Media is advertising this event for a third party. The event is not promoted, or endorsed by Channel Eye Media unless specifically stated.
