Debate Mate at V&A East

What you'll learn:

Join V&A East and Debate Mate for a dynamic Careers Week workshop!
Students will explore a museum-focused debate - such as whether looted objects should be repatriated - and learn how to disagree agreeably. With expert facilitators from Debate Mate, students will build confidence, strengthen their speaking and listening skills, and learn to argue with empathy and clarity.
Perfect for students of Performing Arts, English, Citizenship, and History

This workshop welcomes students from Year 10, 11, 12 & 13.

It brings together three schools to explore and critically examine why museums collect, encouraging students to debate these ideas with one another in the heart of the museum.

No more than 20 students per class.

This is a full-day workshop running from 10am to 4pm. The final debate will take place in Gallery 2 in the afternoon.

Quiet spaces will be available for students who need them, including those observing Ramadan or for other personal, wellbeing, or accessibility needs.

Need-to-know terms for taking part:

We’re hosting Industry Insight sessions, employability skills workshops, and panel discussions at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, in universities, creative spaces, and workplaces from 2-5 March 2026.

The programme is available to every school in Hackney, Newham, Tower Hamlets, and Waltham Forest. The booking form is restricted to educators in schools.

Take a look at the program and schedule, considering dates, times, groups, and availability before you book. Once you fill out the booking you will not be able to go back, so please ensure you have all the relevant information when applying. Applications are limited to two session per programme.

Submit all bookings by February 13th 2026 you’ll hear by February 18th 2026 if you’re in.

Keep in mind that we can’t promise you access to every session.

Please send any questions to [email protected]

We are excited to see you at East Careers week!

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Host or Publisher Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park