STUDENT ACTIVITIES

2026 Barwon Junior Debating Competition – Round 2

On the afternoon of Wednesday 24th June, our two Year 6 debating teams hosted Leopold Primary School and Geelong Grammar for the second round of the Barwon Junior Debating Competition. The topic was That Voting in Australian Elections Should Be Voluntary.

Chilwell A was arguing for the affirmative against Leopold. Shayaan was 1st speaker, Harry K. was 2nd speaker, Millie was 3rd speaker and George I. was supporting with rebuttals (absent on the day). Chilwell B was arguing for the negative against Grammar. Liam was 1st speaker, Lexi was 2nd speaker, Felix was 3rd speaker and Abbie was supporting with rebuttals, as well as doing Chairperson and Timekeeper duties on the day.

The adjudicator commented on the top quality of both debates and how well everyone delivered their speeches and rebuttals. In the end, Chilwell won both debates, with Harry and Felix winning Best Speaker awards. Well done to all our debaters, who have put in many hours of preparation and practise.

We are looking forward to round 3 early this term. The next two rounds will be impromptu, which means we will only have 30 minutes to read the topic, brainstorm arguments and prepare speeches, all without teachers and technology! We will keep you updated on the results.

Millie Scarlett and Harry Knight

Grade 6 Debaters

Congratulations to Molly 3/4J who competed in the State Cross Country Championships in Melbourne on Thursday 16th July. She ran a personal best of 8:04 and placed 35th in the state!!!! Incredible effort Molly!