Develop Series: Debate 101
A comprehensive 3-part hybrid workshop series, as part of the NCL Develop Programme, designed to transform how graduates communicate in professional settings, particularly during times of change and uncertainty.
- Workshop 1: 18th Feb 12:30-13:30 GMT
- Workshop 2: 25th Feb 12:30-13:30 GMT
- Workshop 3: 4th March 12:30-13:30 GMT
Debate Mate is a global social business that powers social change by teaching confidence, communication, and leadership from the classroom to the boardroom.
Our two core arms - Debate Mate Schools, an award-winning educational charity that has worked with over 150,000 young people since 2008, and Debate Mate Training, a world-renowned training provider and events producer - combine to create unique, high-impact programmes that bridge professional development and social responsibility.
As a social business, the profits from Debate Mate Training are reinvested into the sustainability and growth of Debate Mate Schools, creating a cycle of positive impact.
Course Information
Workshop 1: Presenting with impact:
Transform how you approach presentations, with proven frameworks for structuring compelling arguments and tips and techniques for managing challenging moments. Practice with real world scenarios and receive immediate feedback from Debate Mate facilitators.
Skills developed:
- Structuring arguments for maximum clarity
- Balancing emotional and logical appeals
- Persuasive presenting for influence and impact
- Responding calmly and coherently to challenges or disruptions in the moment
Workshop 2: Facilitating Constructive Conversations
Learn to navigate disagreement, build consensus and transform conflict into productive problem-solving opportunities.
Skills developed:
- Techniques for de-escalation and finding common ground
- Active listening and empathetic communication
- Offering, and responding to, challenges and objections in a constructive way
- How to communicate across ideological divides
Workshop 3: Mastering the message
Learn to adapt your message for different audiences and contexts, and develop sophisticated stakeholder engagement skills through strategic communication practice.
Skills developed:
- Adapting your communication style to different contexts
- Framing information strategically for diverse audiences
- Identifying, and leveraging, stakeholder interests and priorities
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Course Dates
Course Start Date: Wednesday, February 18, 2026 12:30 PM
Course End Date : Wednesday, March 4, 2026 1:30 PM
Enrolment Dates
Enrolment Start Date: Friday, January 23, 2026 8:00 AM
Enrolment End Date : Wednesday, February 18, 2026 8:00 AM
Course Location
Newcastle University
Course Tutor/s
Jeremy Pidgeon, Lily Moore
Course Delivery Type
Online - Live 
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This is a free course.