For over 50 years, more than 100 schools from both public and private schools across Brisbane have competed annually in Queensland Debating Union Competitions. Corinda SHS is part of the Brisbane-West Region, and this year, we proudly hosted the Year 7 debate rounds.
Most recently, our four Year 7 teams took on a challenging short-prep debate - where students are given just one hour to prepare their arguments before stepping up to compete. The topic? "That co-curricular activities should be banned". It sparked passionate and thoughtful discussion.
Hear what some of our students, Ada G and Annie B, had to say about their experiences below!
What advice would you give other Year 7s who are thinking about joining the debating team next year?
“I think joining the Corinda SHS debating team is a really great idea, if you're looking for an activity to join. It's a great way to make new friends with some people who share a same interest. Just remember to stay calm under pressure, and don't be afraid to speak your mind! The whole point of debating is to prove you're right, so don't hold back!" Annie B
What skills do you think you developed through debating?
“Skills I have learned through debating would be thinking about problems from different perspectives and learning that there isn't always one correct answer, how to structure an argument to get your point across clearly, improve public speaking, working together as a team, and being a good sport, win or lose." Ada G
What did you enjoy most about the experience?
“I enjoy being able to argue with another school, and prove why I'm right, and why Corinda State High School is better than any other school. I feel really proud to represent Corinda in a way that is important to me. That's what I enjoy most about debating. The pride and joy that come with it." Annie B
A special shout out to our staff coaches Mr Gilroy, Head of Department for Humanities, Ms C Smith, Ms M Smith, and Mx Kubes for helping lead our teams. Best of luck students for the next rounds of competition!