DAV Debating

Senior Debating 

Last term was busy for debating, with senior students participating in another two rounds. Years 10 and 11 faced the added difficulty of secret topic debates, where they were only allowed one hour to prepare their speeches on an unseen topic. Determined to do their best, students prepared by undertaking a practice round at school after the Athletics Carnival. All students rose to the challenge and spoke persuasively in defence of their proposition.  

Next week the last round takes place, with Year 10s debating about the rights of medical staff to strike, and Year 9s debating about the merit of participation awards. Year 11s face another secret topic debate; if they win this round the Year 11 team will progress to the finals series. We wish all debaters the best of luck for their last round.  

Junior Debating 

With Senior Debating concluding, Junior Debating is just beginning. Year 7 and 8 students will be learning the art of debating and engaging in a serious of friendly inter-school debates. We hope they enjoy the experience, and that a new passion for persuasion is ignited.  

Public Speaking  

VCAA Plain English Speaking Competition 

Shelford hosted one of the heats for this prestigious competition last term. Year 12 student Martha S gave a prepared speech about the need for the VCE to be reformed. Despite the pressure of a four minute preparation time, she gave an effective impromptu speech about forming independent opinions. The judges were impressed, and Martha went on to compete at the Semi-Finals at Melbourne University.   

Bayspeak  

Bayspeak is a public speaking competition for secondary school students around the Bayside area. Kyley C and Chinthya S represented Shelford in the Junior Division, and Martha S represented Shelford in the Senior Division. They all spoke eloquently, and Kyley went on to speak in the final where her speech about originality was awarded second place. 

Ainger Peck Public Speaking Award 

Ainger Peck is a highly regarded public speaking competition run by the Rotary Club of Richmond. Open to all secondary students, Ruby B and Nicole R from Year 8, and Kyley C from Year 9 spoke for Shelford. They were competing against numerous VCE students and came away inspired to continue to grow their public speaking skills.  

Elizabeth Park

English Staff