About the Program
Debating provides students with the opportunity to develop confidence and competence in formal public speaking situations whilst working collaboratively in a safe team environment.
Craigslea SHS has one of the premier debating programs on the Northside. Our teams regularly make finals and we have a number of students who trial for the State Team. Last year we were one of a select number of venues (and the only state school) selected to host a round of the National Schools Debating Championships.
A number of our past students come back to coach junior teams and we also have students who currently adjudicate Queensland Debating Union (QDU) debates.
Why Debating?
Involvement in Debating offers profound and lasting benefits for our students. With its emphasis on critical thinking, effective communication, independent research and teamwork, debating teaches skills that serve individuals well in school, in the workplace and in fulfilling their responsibilities as citizens of democratic societies. Once students have learned how to debate, they are better able to critically examine and make informed judgements about crucial issues.
Competition Highlights
Students at Craigslea SHS compete in the Queensland Debating Union (QDU) Debating competition – the premier Debating competition in Queensland.
Other annual competitions include the Brisbane Girls Debating (BGD) competition, the QDU women's competition and QDU state sector competition.
- In 2018, our Year 10 Debating team made the top 16 out of 100 teams in the QDU competition.
- In 2020, Year 10 student, Rachel, made the BGD competition finals.
Upcoming Competitions for 2021
To be advised.
How to get Involved
Commitment is an essential part of Debating. It is incredibly important that when on a Debating team, each member turns up to each competition and practice.
For more information or to express your student's interest, please email Mrs Bronwyn Griffiths at debating@craigsleashs.eq.edu.au.