Debating

Senior Debating Success

A HUGE congratulations to our Year 11 Debating Team who trounced St Bede's in a debate about who should fund childcare on Wednesday 12th March. It was an absolute privilege and pleasure to watch Xander Lay-Pass, Amelie Cream and Zara Behrend wow the audience with their words, wit and wisdom. Congratulations to Zara for being named best speaker.

The Debaters Association of Victoria hosts the school debating competition each year, and more than 250 schools participate. We are in the Brighton region and compete against other local schools. It's a fantastic extra-curricular opportunity for our young people and I would encourage students from across Years 7-12 to consider getting involved in 2026.

I would like to sincerely thank Jonathan Sise, one of our expert VCE teachers, who runs the debating program at the college. A successful debater in his own school days, he is a gifted debating coach, and our students are very lucky to be able to learn the artform with him.

On Wednesday May 2nd, our Senior Debating Team partook in their first secret topic debate for the season. For those unfamiliar with the Victorian Schools Debating Competition, a secret topic is released one hour before the debate. Teams must then prep their case and individual speeches within that hour. It is a challenge of epic proportions. Adrenaline, quick thinking and exceptional team work skills are essential for success. Students cannot have any help from their coach during this time.

On this occasion, our students were up against Firbank, and the topic read out at 6pm was: "That we should prioritise de-extinction projects over conserving endangered animals". A fascinating, unusual and challenging topic to wrap your head around in just one hour!

Year 11 students, Xander Lay-Pass, Amelie Cream and Zara Behrend argued the negative side of the topic. I am extremely proud to report that they defeated Firbank by 3 points, which in debating terms is a clear and decisive win. 

A huge congratulations must also go to Xander Lay-Pass for being named Best Speaker for the debate. 

I would like to reiterate my thanks to Jonathan Sise, who is an exceptionally talented and dedicated Debating Coach. I would also like to congratulate our amazing debaters - Xander, Amelie and Zara. We are all incredibly proud of your outstanding achievement.

I am very much looking forward to watching these three in action on May 7th for Round 4. What secret topic will they grapple with then, I wonder?

Olivia Grant

Assistant Campus Principal 11 & 12