From the Principal

In today’s world, the ability to express ideas clearly and confidently is more important than ever – especially for young women. Learning to speak up isn’t just about answering questions in class; it’s about developing the confidence to share opinions, lead discussions, and respectfully stand up for their own rights and the rights of others. Programs such as debating, public speaking, and opportunities to give speeches and present their class learning orally offer invaluable opportunities for girls to build these essential life skills.

MLC School has long been renowned for the quality of its oratory program, and anyone who has had to debate an issue with an MLC School girl will know that she is skilled and persuasive!

On Tuesday night, MLC School hosted the grand finals of the Archdale Debating Competition. Archdale debating is a prestigious inter-school debating competition for girls’ schools in New South Wales. It offers students the opportunity to engage in structured debates on a range of topical issues, helping them develop critical thinking, persuasive speaking, and teamwork skills. The competition is named after Betty Archdale, a prominent educator and advocate for girls’ education, and it encourages participants to articulate their viewpoints confidently while respecting differing perspectives.

24 IGSA (Independent Girls’ Schools Association) schools participate in Archdale Debating, which runs from May to September each year.

MLC School had five teams in the 11 Grand Final debates, more than twice as many as any of the other schools. Our girls competed strongly, just as they have throughout the season and for the second year in a row, we were victorious in taking out the coveted Archdale Shield for the best performing school in the competition.

Such is our reputation that there are apparently rumours circulating that our success is due to us offering generous debating scholarships! Of course, this is not true. Our success is due to the leadership of Dr Andrea Rowe, Oratory Coordinator – Debating, the talent of our coaches (many of whom are former MLC School students) and the commitment and expertise of the students in our debating teams. Congratulations and thank you to all involved.

Speaking in public might seem daunting at first, but it’s a powerful way for young girls to conquer nerves and build self-assurance. Whether presenting to classmates or a larger audience, girls learn to express themselves clearly, use persuasive language, and engage listeners. These experiences nurture confidence that extends far beyond the stage or classroom and will place them in a strong position to shine in interviews, leadership roles, and group projects as they progress through life.

As well as Archdale Debating MLC School competes in the Independent Schools Debating Association (ISDA) Competition and the Friday Evening Debating (FED) Competition and students in Year 5 can take part in Gala Debating Days held by Independent Primary School Heads of Australia (IPSHA).

We have a development program for students who are interested in building their oratory skills and large numbers of students compete in the IGSA Festival of Speech each year. Should your daughter be interested in being involved, I encourage her to contact Dr Andrea Rowe you can learn more about supporting your daughter’s voice in Head of Learning and Teaching, Melissa McMahon’s article here.

– Lisa Moloney
Principal