6th formers debate with JFS and Lancaster Grammar School

BHGS participated in a series of online debates to discuss the motion: ‘Should Jewish armed forces be blamed for the forced dispossession of half the Arab population from their homes in Palestine in 1948?’

Parallel Histories is a national organisation that works with schools to develop debates around difficult topics. Rather than shy away from competing narratives, the debates aim to seek them out, lay them side by side and challenge students to immerse themselves in both perspectives, helping them to formulate their own judgement.

Lola, Claudia and Eleni all participated in a series of debates with Lancaster Grammar School and the Jewish Free School. We had to prepare arguments that required students to examine the source evidence, debate alternative interpretations on events in 1948 and respond to rebuttals from the opposing team. Our team were excellent in articulating and substantiating their opinions. It was also great to interact with peers in schools across the country. We look forward to more debates with Parallel Histories in the future.