A team of talented Year 9 pupils from Brecon High School have won a national debating title at a prestigious competition hosted by the University of Oxford.

Finn Irwin, Rhydian Davies, Darcy Richards and Eric Pearce were named winners of the National Plate at the Seren Oxford Debating Competition, held at Jesus College in March.

The contest, part of the Welsh Government’s Seren Academy programme, brings together some of the country’s most able students to compete in British Parliamentary-style debates on a range of topical and challenging issues.

During the two-day event, pupils had the chance to explore the university city and take part in multiple rounds of competitive debating. In the final, the Brecon team debated the motion: “This house believes that teaching Religious Education is no longer relevant in schools” – a challenging topic that they tackled with confidence and clarity to secure the win.

The team impressed judges with their thoughtful arguments and teamwork.

The Seren Academy aims to support high-achieving learners in Wales from Years 8 to 13, helping them access top universities through academic enrichment activities and mentoring.

Cllr Pete Roberts, Powys County Council’s Cabinet Member for a Learning Powys, said: “On behalf of the council, I would like to congratulate Finn, Rhydian, Darcy, Eric, and everyone at Brecon High School on this remarkable achievement.

“Their success at the Seren National Debating Competition is a testament to their talent, hard work, and the excellent support provided by their teachers. We are incredibly proud of them.”