Suffolk and Norfolk school children take part in council debate

Students from 10 schools prepared to debate each other

Primary school students have been debating what makes a good citizen.

Ten schools from Suffolk and Norfolk were hosted by East Suffolk Council for a day of learning about democracy.

They had to argue for and against the motion: Being a responsible citizen - is following the rules enough?

Ronnie from Elm Tree Primary School in Lowestoft said: "Giving things to charity and hospitals or older people isn't a rule, but it would be nice if you do it."

Sarah Whitelock talked to the students about recycling, among other topics

Sarah Whitelock is the cabinet member for communities, leisure and tourism at the council, which is run by a coalition of Green, Liberal Democrats and independents.

"Children are our future, but it's also important they understand that there is a council here and what we do," she said.

"It also encourages them to come here and have discussions about things that will impact on their lives and their futures, then take ideas back to their schools and talk to their fellow pupils about how they can implement that in their schools."

The case for the motion

Students were given tips for public speaking and how to confidently put forward their case

Edward from Dell Primary school in Lowestoft said: "I'm on the yes side, because it is going to take you so long to learn ever single rule in the world."

Marnie, from Coldfair Green school near Saxmundham, said: "Everything is rules, being kind is rules. Treat people how you want to be treated."

Hussain from Wensum Junior School in Norwich said: "Rules are everything because rules make a good society."

The case against

Josh from Elm Tree primary in Lowestoft said: "You don't have to plant flowers, but you can and it will help animals."

Bell from Bignold primary in Norwich said: "I think it should be a rule that people that go outside and get exercise because it improves your mental health and if you're doing something you enjoy it kind of reflects and then you'll do something nice to another person and it will just keep on going and make the world a better place. "

Everly from Filby primary in Great Yarmouth said: "I think you don't just have to follow the rules to be a good citizen because there are some things that aren't rules but it's still good to do them, like donating [to charity]."

The young people were hosted in the council's main chamber.

It was decided the debate was won by those arguing against the motion.

• Listen: Does following the rules make you a good citizen?

Organiser Clare Williams, head teacher at Coldfair Green, said: "I think if we interest children in things like public speaking and being responsible citizens and role models at an early age, it's the key time to capture them."

The schools are all part of the Evolution Academy Trust.