Debating and Public Speaking Report

A range of topics across 3 debates:

• That NSW Police officer should not carry firearms

• That Sydney should be the capital of Australia

• That all students should have to do regular community service (i.e., volunteer, unpaid work) 

It was a really fun social event and one which gave opportunity for our debaters to continue to develop their skills. We will reciprocate a social event with Cranbrook in 2023.

The debating program for 2022 concludes this week. We have witnessed some outstanding achievements – two teams in the Eastside final (Year 7 champions and Year 8 runners-up), the State Runners-up in the Premier’s Debating Challenge (Ellie, Ben, Doug, Holly) and we look forward to hearing the outcomes for Gus in the state semi-final and the Legacy Public Speaking Competition and the Year 8 team who are in the final series for the Premier’s Debating Challenge. Along with these outstanding achievements, there have been countless students in the program who may not have experience competitive competition success, but who have shone every week in bringing their enthusiasm and work ethic to coaching sessions and made exponential improvement throughout the program.

I would like to extend my sincere thanks to the fantastic coaches who have provided outstanding coaching to the students – Conna, Savie, Ariella, Alejo and Luca. Thank you also to the parents and carers who have been so supportive and accommodating, especially during the the Covid-infection epoch of Term 1 and 2 which saw much last-minute shuffling. Seeing the enthusiasm of your children every Friday afternoon and watching their confidence and skills continue to develop has been a wonderful experience. Countless thanks must be extended to Kim Kench, our amazing parent representative who has been fundamental in supporting me in the coordination of the 2022 program. Kim has a genuine investment in the success of the debating program and the development of every student’s skills and confidence. 

I will be evaluating the program in coming weeks and begin preparations for the launch of the 2023 program in early February next year. I do very much hope to see your children return to the program! 

Christy Godby 
Head Teacher English 
Debating Coordinator