Cyfarthfa High School Celebrates Outstanding National Debate Success

Cyfarthfa High School is celebrating an exceptional achievement after its debate team secured second place in the national finals of a prestigious all Wales debating competition held at Oxford University.

The competition began with 77 schools from across Wales, making Cyfarthfa’s rise to the top two an extraordinary accomplishment and a moment of immense pride for the school and the wider Merthyr Tydfil community.

A Journey of Excellence

Cyfarthfa’s debate team first triumphed in a local competition against other Merthyr Tydfil secondary schools, earning them the honour of representing the county. They went on to face—and defeat—the Rhondda Cynon Taf champions, Ysgol Llanhari, securing their place as the regional representatives for the national finals.

As a school engaged with the Welsh Government’s Seren Network, Cyfarthfa is committed to supporting its most able learners through enrichment, guidance, and opportunities that help them aim high and reach their full academic potential. The network plays a valuable role in nurturing ambition and preparing students for progression to leading universities.

At Oxford, the team delivered an outstanding performance, progressing through each round with impressive skill, confidence, and composure. They opened the competition with a strong victory over Crickhowell, followed by an equally commanding win against Ysgol John Bright in the second round. In a closely contested grand final, they narrowly missed out on the top spot to Brynteg School, Bridgend, ultimately finishing as runners up by only a few points.

Reaching the final two out of 77 schools is a testament to the team’s dedication, talent, and teamwork.

Community Recognition

To celebrate their remarkable success, the team was welcomed into the Mayor’s Parlour, where the Mayor of Merthyr Tydfil honoured them with certificates, trophies, and gifts. The students were praised as outstanding ambassadors for both their school and the county.

Warm congratulations to the pupils and Cyfarthfa High School on an outstanding achievement.