Debating Matters because Ideas and Teamwork Matter

The recent Study Tour to Canberra by our Year 6 students was the inspiration for the debate held on Monday of this week. Debaters were keen to develop the skills they learnt at Parliament House. They had the opportunity to build on the immersive experience of how parliament works to make Australia a better place to live. 

The proposition was an issue to which debaters brought great insight: ‘That Australia needs a new flag.’  Bridget (Brigitte) Axup and Jiajun (Jessica) Huang were Chairperson and Timekeeper. Both teams focused on Australia’s identity and how it was reflected, or not reflected, by the current flag.  

The Affirmative Team: Cheryl Li, Isabel Yang and Clara Barry set the agenda and clearly presented their case that the current flag does not reflect current Australia. They argued that the current flag was a distressing symbol to Indigenous Australians. 

The Negative Team: Coco Sullivan, Alie Belan and Berry Roberts responded strongly, arguing that the current Australian Flag is not a symbol that should be changed the way other logos have changed. 

In the end, the debate went to the Affirmative Team. Clara Barry, who had an answer for everything the opposition threw at her, was awarded Best Speaker. Perhaps it was her experience in the Prime Minister’s chair at Parliament House?  

Congratulations to all the debaters. Both teams demonstrated great research and maturity of thought. They are all learning to think on their feet and offer strong rebuttals. Thank you to our Year 10 Coaches who supported our Junior debaters, their advice and guidance throughout the year has been invaluable. 

The next debate will take place in the last week of the term. Debaters will take up the challenge of the proposition ‘That the best things in life are free.’