Debating

St Bede's was represented credibly by two teams of beginning debaters from Years 7 and 8. Although winning scores were hard to come by on this occasion, a valuable day of learning new skills and taking risks was enjoyed by the teams.

Upon reflection, some of their comments included:

“I loved the day! I got to be with my team, learn together and have lots of fun. In particular I learnt how to properly rebut. To rebut you repeat the enemy’s statement, say why they’re wrong then say why it relates to the topic.”

"I liked having the chance to learn new skills and try them out without pressure."

" I liked being able to argue with my opponents and try to think of strong rebuttals."

"I enjoyed learning something new and having the experience of getting adjudicator's feedback to help me improve next time."

"I want to keep debating now because I have enjoyed finding a new activity and meeting some new people who also liked it."

"I just liked learning from the other boys from other schools."

"I enjoyed the chance to debate because the experience taught me some things I didn't know before, and also gave me some pointers of what NOT to do."

We look forward to 2019 and commend these budding debaters for a fine effort. Well done: Alex Smythe, Mitchell Brennan, Noah Perpina, Charlie Connolly, Max Ryan, Sam Anthonisz and Ethan Fletcher.

Kaylene Menara

Debating Coordinator