Debating & Public Speaking News

Debating & Public Speaking News

Although debating originated in Ancient Greece, it continues to be a powerful means of discourse because the benefits to individuals and societies are so great. Our students will learn collaboration, the power of argument, active listening and persuasion as they compete in the Sydney Catholic Schools Debating Competition from Week 9 of this term until midway through Term 2. 

The 2025 OLM Debating Squad currently consists of three junior teams: 

Year 7Year 8Year 9
Emma Broadhurst
Ava Kopke
Miranda Martin
Lillian Greaves
Sophie Wang
Lauren Cuddihy
Zoe Andrews
Kami Ngugen
Alice Donohoe
Annabelle Nicholson

Sophia George
Tamarli Haydon
Saoirse O’Brien
Alia Fahs

The foundation of our Senior team will consist of Chloe English, Sophie Mooney and Selena Contarino of Year 11. 

Saoirse O’Brien proudly represented OLM at the Sydney Catholic Schools 2025 Public Speaking Grand Final, Year 9 Division.  It was a prestigious event held at North Shore Marist Brothers on Friday the 14 March.  Saoirse was one of only twelve Year 9 students to progress through three stages of competition to reach the highest level.

Mrs Susan Kamp, Debating and Public Speaking Coordinator