Debating & Public Speaking

Confidence, Clarity and a Voice That’s Heard

Debating

From Year 5 onwards, students take part in social debating with local schools. Students are able to refine their skills in persuasive argument, teamwork and respectful listening.

Select debaters represent the College in the prestigious IPSHA competition, debating against other independent schools. Each year the competition concludes with the highly anticipated Gala Debating Day, hosted by a participating school. Our students routinely receive high praise from the adjudicators for their creative thinking and eloquent debating skills.

This culture of excellence is supported by enthusiastic student leaders, dedicated staff, engaged parents and ex-students who return as coaches and mentors.

Public Speaking

Our Year 5 and Year 6 students engage in the Public Speaking competition, working through the writing process then delivering a speech which helps students to develop confidence, improve verbal communication skills and learn to express their ideas clearly using effective use of voice.

Following the presentation of speeches, select students represent the College in an Inter-School Public Speaking competition with St Patrick’s College. By participating in this event, students learn to appreciate different perspectives, build friendships and develop mutual respect.

Debating and public speaking at Santa Sabina is more than a competition schedule, it’s about developing articulate, confident young people who can express themselves with clarity, listen with respect and step forward as leaders in any setting. The experience gained by students encourages their critical thinking, creativity and resilience, as students organise their thoughts, speak with conviction and respond to feedback.