Debating

Debating Report Round 1

Thursday night saw the launch of Interschool Debating for 2025, at Wesley College. After great results in the 2024 Interhouse and Interschool debating, Oakleigh had four teams enter Round 1 with confidence.

Our two Year 10 teams debated the topic “that tickets to all sporting events should be free”.

We took the negative side, and focused on economic growth, safety, and developing grassroots programs.

Ellie, Irene and Connie defeated Highvale Secondary in a strong all-round performance. Mary, Issam, Olivia debated well but were beaten narrowly by Avila College.

Our two Year 11 teams debated “that all school and university exams should be open book”

Again we had the negative side, so we emphasised the importance of resilience, neuroplasticity, academic integrity and reliable metrics to fairly assess student capability.

We rebutted very well. We proved that there are already viable open-book options, that exams are not about simple memorisation, and that reducing student stress in the short term, really just makes adult stress more inevitable in the long term.

Archna (Best speaker), Nathanael and Lazarus defeated Caulfield Grammar, while Elena L, Ben, Elena D (Best speaker) defeated Wesley College.

3 wins and 1 loss – a great start!

Due to the Year 9 hiking adventure, the Year 9 debate were postponed, so we look forward to more exciting debates then, and throughout the season.

Congratulation to all of our debaters on their excellent representation of our school.

Leigh Gridley

Year level Leader (Years 8 & 9)

Debating Coordinator