St Andrews Union Debating Society
The St Andrews Union Debating Society is the oldest - and some might say finest - of its kind, founded in 1794.
The Union Debating Society is a subcommittee of the St Andrews Students' Association. All matriculated students of the University of St Andrews are automatically members, and all of our events are free for them to attend.
The Union Debating Society is the only debating union in Scotland to hold weekly public debates, single speaker events and panel discussions. Our public events are free for all matriculated students of the University of St Andrews to attend.
Public Debates & Events
COMPETITIVE DEBATING
The UDS runs weekly training sessions for all students on British Parliamentary debating. We send teams to competitions across the UK most weekends as well as the World and European University Debating Championships in the summer break.
Schools Outreach
The UDS operates a thriving Schools Outreach Program, supporting schools in the local area by offering training sessions with experienced university debaters. We also hold the annual St Andrews Schools Open, a one-day BP competition for schools across Scotland.
The Debates Board
The society is run by the Debates Board. This is comprised of the Board of Ten, The Public Events Board and The Competitive Board. Find out more about board using the link below.
Founded in 1794, we’re the oldest - and some might say finest - debating society of it’s kind
Follow us on Social Media for up-to-date information about all of our events!