The Big Debate

The Ladies’ College is set to host its third annual Big Debate, where participants will engage with the motion: ‘This house believes that in a small island like Guernsey, global issues are more important than local ones.’

The debate, which takes place on 23rd September between 6:30-8pm at The Ladies’ College, will be chaired by Principal, Daniele Harford-Fox. Tom Fletcher, Principal of Hertford College, the University of Oxford, and former British Ambassador to Lebanon and foreign policy advisor to Number 10, will propose the motion alongside lower-sixth student, Eva Redelinghuys. Sir Richard Collas, retired Bailiff of Guernsey and former Governor of The Ladies’ College, will oppose the motion with upper-sixth student, Abigail Power.

Daniele Harford-Fox, Principal at The Ladies’ College, said: “We are fast approaching the next Guernsey election cycle and this one feels important. As Tom says in his book ‘Through the haze and the tech and the noise, we must understand a simple lesson from history: those who adapt fastest will win.’ Asking questions about whether Guernsey needs to become more outward focused, willing to move quickly and decisively in a fast-changing global context or should instead focus its attention on our community and sorting out the challenges that islanders face on a day-to-day basis, feels central to our future.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming Tom Fletcher and Sir Richard Collas to the College for this year’s Big Debate. The topic will prompt our students, Eva and Abigail, along with Tom and Sir Richard, to reflect on balancing local responsibilities with global awareness and consider what Guernsey should do next.

“‘As educators, we believe that debate is an essential tool in shaping young minds. It not only teaches our students to think critically and consider multiple perspectives on any given issue, but also fosters empathy and understanding in a world where there are often many sides to a story.

“Through debate, young people learn the importance of using their voice to stand up for what they believe in, engage in meaningful discussions, and advocate for positive change both locally and globally.”

Tom Fletcher added: “I am looking forward to visiting Guernsey for this important event and to contributing to what I believe will be a thought-provoking and impactful debate. I look forward to bringing a wider, global perspective to the conversation, especially on such a significant topic. It’s a subject that resonates deeply in today’s interconnected world where the line between global and local issues is increasingly blurred.

“In previous years, debates like this have not only challenged students but have also inspired real, meaningful discussions within the community. The success of these debates demonstrates the power of young voices when given the opportunity to engage with complex issues. I’m excited to see how this year’s debate will shape the students’ understanding of their role in local and global contexts.”