On 24–25 January 2026, more than 90 young debaters from 29 primary institutions gathered at Malvern College Hong Kong for the Hong Kong Primary Schools Debating Championship (HKPSDC), the city’s most accessible and student focused debating competition for primary speakers.
This year’s championship brought meaningful developments to the community, introducing new formats, new learning opportunities, and memorable experiences for students and families.
A Championship of Firsts
First Ever Impromptu Debates for Primary Students: For the first time in Hong Kong, primary debaters took part in true impromptu rounds, where they received impromptu motions with limited preparation time. This format encouraged real time critical thinking and rewarded students who could analyze quickly and present their arguments clearly.
The Most Accessible Primary Debate Championship to Date: HKPSDC 2026 welcomed 90 primary speakers, and included participants from 29 schools, making it the largest and most inclusive edition of a primary schools championship in Hong Kong with local schools, international schools, public schools and private schools participating. Schools with established debate programs joined schools sending teams for their very first competition, creating a supportive and welcoming environment for all.
Parents Watching From the Audience: Unlike most primary schools debate competitions in Hong Kong, HKPSDC 2026 invited parents (alongside coaches or chaperones) to observe their children’s debating performances. Many families saw their children debate live at a competition for the first time, which created a meaningful and encouraging atmosphere throughout the tournament.
Judged by Members of Team Hong Kong: Students received constructive, specialized feedback from members of Team Hong Kong’s World Schools Main Team and Development Team. These adjudicators brought first hand experience of what it takes to excel at the highest levels of school debating.
Celebrating the Champions
In the schools division, the championship was won by St. Paul’s Co educational College Primary School A (Keira F., Jaelyn C., Chloe Y.). The finalist team was Diocesan Boys’ School Primary Division A (Jay C., Brian P., Marcus L.). The best speaker of the schools division finals was Keira F.
In the open division, the championship was won by Lucky Dogs (Cheryl S., Sofie H., Juahn K.). The finalist team was Silver Snakes (Henry L., Amanda C., James J.). The open finals best speaker was Sofie H.
In the novice division, the championship was won by Chinese International School A (Emily J., Dylan T., Oliver C.). The finalist team was St. Paul’s Co educational College Primary School C (Aerin W., Sonia C., Lyndon Z.). The novice finals best speaker was awarded to Dylan T.
For individual awards, the Overall Best Speaker was Eleven Z. (Flying Dragons). The Novice Best Speaker was Sonia C. (St. Paul’s Co educational College Primary School C).
A Growing and Supportive Community
HKPSDC 2026 was made possible through the enthusiasm of young debaters, the encouragement of schools, parents, and coaches. This year’s championship showed what primary debating can become when accessibility, learning, and community come together. It was inspiring to see so many students speak with confidence, curiosity, and courage.
Thank you to all participants, parents, volunteers, and to Malvern College Hong Kong for hosting an outstanding event. We look forward to watching these young debaters continue to grow and return stronger in future seasons.
