“
Our Debating program spans across Years 5 to 12, fostering crucial skills in communication, critical thinking, and teamwork.”
At St Leonard’s College, Debating is not just an extracurricular activity, it’s a platform for intellectual growth and personal development, building confidence and self-assurance. Distinguishing between the three age groups, the Years 5 and 6, Years 7 to 8, and Years 9 to 12 Debating programs are seamlessly coordinated by dedicated individuals, ensuring a tailored approach to each student’s developmental stage.
Moreover, our commitment to authentic coeducation is evident in our mixed-sex activity approach, allowing teams to comprise members of all genders.
Students in Years 5 and 6 can participate in a variety of Debating and Public Speaking competitions over the year, including House Debating and a workshop from the Debaters Association of Victoria (DAV) followed by interschool debating and public speaking competitions at regional and state levels. In the past, our Years 5 and 6 debaters have claimed the title of State Champions.
Students work in teams (initially within the House group and then later, with the interschool competition, they work in teams to prepare debates and/or public speaking presentations collaboratively.) They develop confidence and their teamwork skills, and conversations are encouraged with specialists in their fields from both within and outside the College.
For Years 9 to 12, our students engage in the Debaters Association of Victoria (DAV) Schools Competition, taking place during terms 1 and 2, with Finals extending into terms 3 and 4. Meanwhile, the younger minds in Years 7-8 participate in the DAV Junior Secondary Competition, enriching their debating experience during terms 3 and 4.
Understanding the challenges of busy academic schedules, there are no regular meetings. Instead, activities are strategically scheduled to complement the academic calendar. The 2023 DAV Schools Grand Final Championship, clinched by our Year 12 A Division, attests to the excellence and commitment of our Debating teams.
Embracing the College’s vision of ‘An Education for Life,’ Debating at St Leonard’s goes beyond rhetoric. It builds resilience, hones negotiating skills, and encourages respectful discussions. Engaging in evidence-based arguments, students gain confidence in public speaking, fostering an environment that values discussion with empathy and respect.
