MLC School Debating: A Year of Growth, Achievement, and Inspiring Mentorship

MLC School Debating: A Year of Growth, Achievement, and Inspiring Mentorship

As the 2025 debating comes to an end, MLC School celebrates an extraordinary year marked by spirited competition, impressive achievements, and the unwavering dedication of our students and coaches. From the first debates in February to the final rounds in Term 4, our teams have demonstrated resilience, critical thinking, and a passion for persuasive argument.

IPSHA Debating Ends on a High

The season concluded with a memorable trip to Macarthur Anglican School, Cobbitty, where our Year 6 teams triumphed in both their debates on challenging topics:

  • That it should be compulsory for all students to do community service
  • That we should have a four-day school week

Their victories were a testament to their preparation and confidence. While our Year 5 teams faced tough competition against older opponents, they left with valuable lessons and renewed determination for future debates. Throughout the season, wins and losses alike have reinforced the true purpose of debating at MLC School: learning, growth, and collaboration.

Outstanding Results Across Divisions

Beyond IPSHA, our students excelled in the Independent Debating Competition (IDC). Eight teams reached the finals, a remarkable achievement in itself. Highlights include:

  • Junior Division: Year 8 teams MLC 13 and MLC 10 reached the Octo-finals, while MLC 12 advanced to the Quarter Final.
  • Senior Division: Four teams competed in the Octo-finals, with MLC 15 (Year 9) and MLC 17 (Year 10) meeting in the Quarter Final. MLC 15 emerged victorious, and our most senior team, MLC 18 (Year 11), progressed to the Semi Finals.

These results reflect not only talent but also the perseverance of students who often debated back-to-back rounds under pressure.

Celebrating Our Old Girl Coaches

Central to this success has been the guidance of our dedicated coaches, Anika Cuganesan (2023), Alannah Christodoulou (2023), and Sylie Bhat (2023), all proud MLC School Old Girls. Their commitment to mentoring the next generation of debaters has been inspiring. Drawing on their own experiences, they have instilled confidence, strategy, and a love for debating in our students. Their efforts exemplify the strength of the MLC School community, where alumnae continue to shape and support future leaders.

Looking Ahead

With trials for the 2026 Year 8 to Year 12 teams completed and Year 6 to Year 7 trials scheduled for early next year, the future of debating at MLC School looks brighter than ever. We extend heartfelt thanks to our coaches, parents, and carers for their unwavering support during what has been our most successful debating year to date.

– Dr Andrea Rowe
Oratory Coordinator

– Jan Falls
Teacher, Mind Challenges Coordinator

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