Consider Debating

The ability to speak in public is a fundamental one.

To use the spoken word with persuasiveness and clarity is one of the universal skills, endowing a person with added confidence and self-assurance. Debating encourages clear thinking. It requires the honing of life skills in listening, analytical reasoning, research and teamwork.

BBC Debating offers the opportunity for the student to acquire these skills, while enjoying the fun of working with quick-witted and enthusiastic peers.

The BBC Debating Society presents a year-long programme involving inter-class and inter-school debating, seminars, school-based oratory contests, state and national speaking competitions, and humourous debating.

Debating Society

Involvement in debating begins in the Junior School, where classroom debating is regularly conducted.

In the Senior School, debating is a major extra-curricular activity from Years 8 to 12. Team selections are made in the first days of the school year through a trialing system that is adjudicated by the debating staff. The Captain and Vice-Captain of Debating are appointed from the Year 12 rank. Parent involvement is vital and parents are encouraged to join the Parents and Friends' Debating Support Group.

"If I can set a chime of words tinkling in the minds of a few thoughtful listeners,
I'll hold my head so high it'll strike the stars."

- Horace, Roman writer, on public speaking.

The Annual Great Debate

Each year, the members, family and friends of the BBC Debating Society enjoy the funniest event of the school calendar, The Great Debate.

With a dinner, humorous presentations and the debate itself, it is truly BBC Debating's 'Night of Nights'.

• GPS Debating 2007
• Coaching Times 2007

Questions & Answers

How do I join the Debating Society?

The daily notices will inform you of the date and time for selection trials, which all intending students must take part in during the first fortnight of each year.

Obtain an information sheet from the Student Counter or from Debating master Mr Dennis, giving you details about the speech you will be required to present in the trialing.

What time commitments are involved?

In GPS competition, you will be involved in seven debates, held on Friday nights, 6.00pm - 9.30pm.

Dates vary each year, but the usual season runs from February to the end of May. Red Cross Debating is held on Tuesday or Wednesday nights in Semester Two.

Compulsory coaching for all debaters is held on each Tuesday afternoon 3.00-4.30pm. Additional meetings with the coach are standard.

It is essential that students signing up for activities avoid any clashes with their Tuesday afternoon and evening commitments to debating.

Last updated : 17 July, 2008