GIFTED students from Padgate High School argued the importance of ‘stop and search’ initiatives at the House of Lords.

The 16 pupils travelled to London to take part in the National Debating Final after seeing off tough competition in five heats.

Padgate pupils were representing the north of England at the event as they faced three groups from the south of the country.

The teenagers from year 10 debated that nationwide checks would prevent further knife crime, rather than just introducing searches to certain areas.

Matthew McGillicuddy, team captain, said: “I think it is a real privilege to participate in the final debate and we have worked hard to achieve our place in the final.

“I’m sure that it will be a valuable learning experience because it gives us all a chance to see how the rules that regulate our lives are decided.”

Co-ordinator, Joanne John-Lewis, said: “This type of event not only offers an exceptional opportunity for our students, it also contributes to their education and development of skills.

“It challenges each individual to engage with social issues, form opinion and be able to work as part of a team in order to defend that opinion and make a positive contribution.”

The pupils narrowly missed out on winning their motion by two votes.