The Henley College Politics Oratory Society's Competition Win!

Pictured are members of The Henley College Oratory Society after receiving their bespoke society badges, marking a proud moment for the group following their recent success in their first debating competition.

Students studying A Level Politics achieved an impressive win against Wellington College, a school widely recognised for its strong debating tradition and dedicated coaching. To secure a victory in this context is a significant achievement and reflects the confidence, preparation and teamwork shown by the Henley students.

Throughout the competition, students demonstrated the ability to think critically, construct persuasive arguments and respond with clarity under pressure. Their performance drew very positive feedback from Wellington College’s Head of Debating and their professional debating coach, highlighting the strength of the team and the high standard they delivered.

The Oratory Society is led by Dr Aspasia Lioliou, an educator and political historian who brings a rare blend of academic expertise and real world experience into the classroom. She holds a PhD in International Relations and a PGCE in History, alongside further qualifications in European and International Studies and Political Science and Public Administration. Before moving fully into education, she spent over two decades working in international corporate environments, including senior roles linked to global research services, financial services regulation and international relations.

This experience allows her to connect political theory directly to how systems and policy operate in practice, giving students a much deeper understanding of the subject. Fluent in three European languages and actively engaged in educational research through the Chartered College of Teaching, she is passionate about developing students who can think critically, question confidently and engage with global issues.

Dr Aspasia Lioliou said:
“I was incredibly proud of the students. Their energy, teamwork and commitment to improving were clear throughout. This experience has given them valuable insight into competitive debating and will really support their development going forward.”

Principal Simon Spearman said:
“This is a fantastic achievement for our students. To win against a school with such an established debating reputation speaks volumes about their ability and determination. At Henley we are committed to giving students opportunities that build confidence, character and ambition alongside academic success, and this is a great example of that in action.”

The competition also gave students the chance to learn more about the structure and methodology of formal debating, as well as receiving detailed professional feedback. This will now be used to strengthen future training sessions, led by the student leadership team within the society.

At The Henley College, enrichment plays a central role in the student experience. Opportunities like the Oratory Society help students develop essential skills such as communication, resilience and independent thinking. These are the qualities that support success not only in exams, but in university, employment and life beyond education.

Henley offers something different. It is not just about achieving strong grades, but about developing confident, capable young people who are ready to step forward and succeed in whatever path they choose.

This success against Wellington College is a clear reflection of that approach in practice and a moment the College is incredibly proud to celebrate.

Find out more about Politics and all our other courses HERE