Debating

Debating

It has been a successful start to Debating in the Secondary School for the final Debating term of the year. The enthusiasm, dedication, and teamwork demonstrated by our students during training and competition have led to an outstanding conclusion to the “in-round” phase of the Archdale Competition.

 

Archdale Round 7 Results

The final round of Archdale saw our teams compete against Tangara School for Girls in Cherrybrook, with exceptional results:

 

  • 7B, 8B, and Junior teams all secured victories debating the topic “That we should ban tourism to Antarctica.”
  • Year 9, Year 10, and Senior teams also won their respective debates. A special congratulations to the Year 9 team, who remain undefeated and currently sit at the top of the Archdale table.

 

Quarter-Final matchups will be announced early next week (via Clipboard), and we wish all our teams the very best as they prepare for the next stage.

 

Primary School Debating – IPSHA Competition 

The IPSHA Debating Competition continues to flourish in the Primary School. Under the guidance of Coach Catherine Park, our young debaters have grown in confidence and skill. Catherine has commended the SCEGGS girls for their thoughtful and articulate arguments throughout the season. We look forward to welcoming many of these talented students into Senior Debating next year.

 

Inter-House Debating – Junior Division (Years 7–9) 

Junior students participated in a spirited Inter-House Debating series across two afternoons, engaging in both prepared and impromptu debates. Topics included:

 

  • Round 1 (Prepared): “That social media does more harm than good for young people.”
  • Round 2 (Unprepared): “That we should ban tourists from conservation areas.”
  • Finals (Unprepared): “That there should be a maximum age limit for politicians.”

 

The House spirit was truly inspiring, with House Officials supporting their teams with snacks and enthusiastic cheerleading. We commend all students who participated, especially those who stepped up to debate for the first time.

 

Senior Inter-House Debating (Years 10–12) 

Upcoming dates for the Senior Inter-House Debating Competition are:

  • Rounds 1 & 2: Friday 29 August | 3.15 pm – 6pm
  • Finals: Friday 5 September | Lunchtime (Prepared Debate)

Senior students interested in representing their House are encouraged to speak with their House Officials.

 

Reminders

  • All debating information is available on Clipboard.
  • Training sessions continue every Monday from 3.15 pm – 5pm until early September. 

 

Looking Ahead 

SCEGGS has performed exceptionally well in the Archdale Competition this year across all teams. We extend our congratulations to all debaters and wish them the very best as they head into the Quarter-Finals next Tuesday 19 August 2025. 

 

Suvini Kottegoda
Debating Coordinator