English & Languages

Head of Faculty – English

Amy Plumridge

Debating 2020

The excitement among debaters was almost palpable when the announcement was made that debating would resume – albeit COVID style 2020.  The Seniors had already completed the first round of debating when the virus caused the cancellation of this competition.  This new format ruled that no parents were allowed in the audience, and also banned was support in the form of advice from coaches to develop ideas. This made for a significantly reduced audience. But it didn’t seem to bother the students.

Round two for Seniors was held on Wednesday night.  The impromptu form is usually the approach adopted for grand finals, but time constraints made it a more practical method of moving ahead with the competition. The topic: The Pen is Mightier Than The Sword was an excellent topic for an impromptu debate.

Our Senior team, Anna Baxter, Harper Weekers, Maddison Winks and Poppy Crawford were primed and ready to go. With whiteboard markers in hand, they engaged in some heated brainstorming before collectively agreeing that: while words can be motivating, it is action that brings about change. The metaphorical interpretation of the topic ensured that they had sophisticated arguments – and their considerable experience saw them deliver these with finesse.  While it was a win they were after, and which they did collect, the joy of participating was clear to see.

Last year’s Junior Grand Final Winning team: Emer Friel, Jade de Lange, along with Georgia Dagge, Haylie Emanuel and Jorja Triffett will contest the next round of debates on Thursday 27 August. We wish these students well.