Debating Grand Slam

Last week saw the Debating Grand Slam return to Oberon High School for 2026. After participating in a training and speech writing workshop, over 40 students from across Years 7 to 12 passionately debated such topics as ‘We should have stricter restrictions on AI’, ‘Zoos should be banned’ and ‘University should be free’. The standard was high this year and many debates were decided by only a few points. 

At lunchtime, there was a staff vs student debate on the topic of ‘Hollywood films are getting worse’. This year, the staff team featuring Sophie O’Shea, Nicole Gray and Anna Shaw was able to narrowly defeat the student team featuring Alex Patterson, Mikaylah Dietrich and Jess Watson.

Thanks to Neve Richards for supporting students during the preparation day and also the many staff who adjudicated debates on the day.

The next big opportunity for students to get involved in public speaking will be our Public Speaking Festival in Term Three. Students can sign up to participate through their English teacher or Ms Neve Richards.

Adrian Stirling