The Annual Mayoral Debate on 19 November 2025 brought together six secondary schools from across the Borough for an engaging and thoughtful afternoon of lively discussion and shared ideas.
This year’s theme focused on the forthcoming Local Government Reorganisation in Hertfordshire, which will see Broxbourne Borough Council merged with one or more neighbouring authorities. Three schools presented the case that “Big is Beautiful: There are more opportunities to benefit Broxbourne residents by being part of a larger organisation.” The remaining teams argued the counter-position that “Small is Special: Broxbourne has a unique character and this needs to be preserved for the future.”
Each group delivered a ten-minute presentation in the Council Chamber at Bishops’ College, supported by PowerPoint, before responding to questions posed by another competing school. Presentations were assessed by a judging panel consisting of the Mayor of Broxbourne, Cllr Patsy Spears; Youth Mayor, Havana Marshall; Deputy Youth Mayor, Tej Nundeh; and the Council’s Community Development Manager, Steve Whitlam.
Following a lively and impressively researched debate, Haileybury Turnford was announced as the overall winner. The winning team comprised Feranmi Jacobs, Gabrielle Robinson, Nashaya Benjamin and Scarlett Robinson, supported by teacher Miss P Johnson.
The Broxbourne School achieved second place, with Goffs Churchgate taking third. Also participating were Goffs Academy, The Robert Barclay Academy, and St Mary’s C of E High School.
Commenting on the event, the Mayor of Broxbourne, Cllr Patsy Spears, said:
I was impressed by the confidence of every participant. Each team presented their arguments with conviction and demonstrated excellent teamwork. It was clear that the students had researched their topic in depth, and I was amazed by the breadth of facts and the strength of reasoning they shared.
All participants received certificates in recognition of their hard work, and the winning team was presented with a trophy donated by the Mayor.