London, 12 March 2020 - Students from King’s College London Mathematics School (KCLMS) recently showcased their presentation skills by winning first place in the Sheriffs’ Challenge Final, a prestigious inter-London debating competition.

Held at the Old Bailey, the Central Criminal Court of England and Wales, our team of six Year-12 students articulately debated a timed motion to a panel of judges and sheriffs, which was then followed by a challenging round of questioning.

Dan Abramson, Head Teacher of KCLMS, said: “It’s fantastic to see our students’ enthusiasm for public speaking. The skills they develop from competitions like these are invaluable. Our students worked incredibly hard and they performed at a very high level in this event. We are so proud of them.”

The team, who are all studying AS Economics, prepared and delivered an 8-minute presentation on ‘What will be the impact of climate change on the City of London and how will this influence the conduct of City businesses?”.

The judges and sheriffs were looking for quality of content and strategy, critical thinking and verbal dexterity. They applauded our students for their outstanding teamwork, conviction of ideas and speed of thinking.

KCLMS was fortunate to have the support of mentor Holly Copley of the Worshipful Company of Actuaries with whom the school has a long-standing and important relationship.

Fiona Morrison, the Master of the Worshipful Company of Actuaries, said: “The feedback from the judges underpinned KCLMS’ excellent plan, the depth of their research, their ability to answer some very challenging questions and their teamwork.”

Organized by the City of London’s Guilds and Livery Companies, the Sheriffs’ London Challenge is an analytical and public-speaking contest. Helping to foster debate and presentation skills in London’s youth, the annual competition has become a distinguished event with every one of sixteen schools in London receiving the support of a livery company.

KCLMS is for students with a particular aptitude and enthusiasm for mathematics and aims to widen participation in mathematical degrees and careers at the very best universities and institutions.

Congratulations to Sophie, Kevin, Aimee, Emma, Victor, Vishal!