Magis Report 

Debating Update

The Octo Finals Round of the WA Debating League (WADL) Schools Debating Competition (SDC) took place on Tuesday evening at Shenton College. Many thanks to the family and friends who came in support. From over 300 teams in the preliminary rounds, the Octo Finals had the top 16 teams competing for a place in next week’s finals. We are pleased to announce that our team will be progressing to the quarter finals.

Congratulations to Novice JTC 7

• Asha Bowers
• Madeleine Miller
• Holly Harrison
• Rosie O’Toole
• Pearl Bovell

The quarter finals will be held this Tuesday, 11 August, at Perth Modern School. Debate times/positions have been confirmed by WADL and communication sent to students/families. We congratulate our champion debating team and wish them the best of luck with their next debate. For those students who wish to develop their debating skills further, we encourage you to sign up for British Parliamentary Debating in Term 3 (see below for details) and, or the International Debating Championships, which will take place in Term 4.

You can keep up to date with our schedule of competitions and events by viewing the Magis calendar – which can be accessed by clicking on the link below.  

Daisy Farley

Head of Magis – Gifted and Talented

Magis: Opportunities to do more!

Note: All expressions of interest should be sent to the Magis Assistant: magis@johnxxiii.edu.au

British Parliamentary Debating

British Parliamentary Debating is an amazing opportunity for students to develop their public speaking skills and learn a new style of debating. It is a niche and intensive competition that encourages teamwork and thinking outside of the box. The skills gained in this competition can transfer across all subjects and other co-curricular activities. This is a one-day competition, and students sign up in pairs. Further details, including the EOI process, preliminary round dates/locations, student resources, etc., can be found on Magis Teams. Expressions of interest are due Monday 17 August (Week 5).

Nature in Focus Photography Competition 

Celebrate Australian biodiversity with the Nature in Focus Photography Competition. Last year’s entries came from across Australia, showcasing the extraordinary nature, wildlife, and conservation efforts around our vast country. This competition is open to students in K-12, to show off their amazing photography skills. Categories for high school students include Oceans, Wetlands & Rivers; Sustainability; and Species and Habitats. Visit Conservation Volunteers Australia. Nature In Focus Photo Competition (2026) to learn more (including judging criteria). Competition closes at 5:00pm AEST, 7 September 2026. Great prizes to be won! 

The Global Voices Fellowship

Attention Year 12 students: Applications are open for the Global Voices Fellowship. This life-changing program aims to upskill and develop the next generation of Australian leaders to contribute to domestic and global decision-making. This is a fully funded scholarship, with all domestic and international flights, accommodations, breakfasts, visas, insurance, and registration fees covered. For more information, please click here or speak with the Head of Magis.