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RINGWOOD School has been chosen for the third year running as one of four winning schools from across the UK in the Question Time Challenge.

Pupils will now get the chance to work alongside David Dimbleby and his production team to produce a real television programme to be broadcast in July.

The Schools Question Time Challenge, supported by the BT Better World Campaign, the Institute for Citizenship and the BBC, involves schools and colleges staging their own debates based on the popular BBC One Question Time format.

Assistant Head teacher at Ringwood School and chair of the event, Chris Lockyer, said: "I am delighted that the team were successful and they have clearly found it a very stimulating and beneficial experience and it shows young people engaging in democratic society and helping them to discuss issues that affect them, their communities and the wider world."

From entries across the UK, judges chose 12 finalists and each school was given a £500 cash grant from the institute of Citizenship, supported by BT, to stage their event.

The finalist schools also received professional support from BT by taking part in a Schools Question Time workshop.

A team of judges visited each event and four winning schools were chosen.

Two students from each of the four schools will now work with David Dimbleby and the Question Time production team and will be involved in all aspects of programme making.

Student editor Jon Beal and editorial student Luke Nurdin, who are both hoping to study media and journalism at university, have been nominated for this and their programme will be on screen on Thursday July 10 on BBC1.

Jon Beal said: "Being a part of the BBC Question Time team and working with David Dimbleby is going to be fantastic!

"The experience is really going to help me, as I'm hopefully going into the media as a screenwriter.

"Question Time develops speaking and listening and really builds on team working abilities, so I should be able to tighten up my abilities.

"It's important to note that without our brilliant team this year, Ringwood would not have won.

"The dedication of team members has gotten us to the top, well done to our team!"

David Dimbleby said: "Pupils from the four winning schools will be producing their Question Time programme during a period of political challenge and change globally and nationally.

"The Schools Question Time events held across the country in April revealed that young people are concerned about the decision-making process on issues that shape the future.

"They have a sharp focus on both domestic problems - from the impact of immigration, teachers pay and the cost of the Olympics - to wider, international issues of the global economy and climate change.

" I look forward to working with them for the July 10 programme".

10:27am Thursday 8th May 2008

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