Head of Learning & Teaching - 8 May
Round 1 of Primary Debating and Public Speaking off to a great start!
On Tuesday 5 May, St Laurence’s College hosted a number of primary school students from Loretto College, Padua College, Ambrose Treacy College and Marist College in the first round of Public Speaking (Year 5) and Debating (Year 6).
Students in Year 5 prepared a two-to-three-minute speech on a topic of their choice. The boys had worked very hard preparing their speeches in their own time and meeting frequently during lunch hours to create and rehearse their speeches.
The Year 6 debate topic was ‘Homework Should Be Abolished’. The boys did an extraordinary job of preparing and delivering their points of view. Again, the boys relinquished lunch breaks in the lead up to the debate to meet in their teams.
Debating and public speaking offer powerful benefits for students in Years 5 and 6, helping them grow into confident, thoughtful learners and active members of their community. Research from the Centre for Independent Studies shows that debate strengthens key skills such as communication, critical thinking, collaboration and creativity—often called the “4 Cs” of 21st-century learning.
When students take part in debates, they learn how to research topics, consider different viewpoints, and present their ideas clearly and persuasively. This not only improves their speaking skills, but also boosts reading comprehension, writing ability and overall academic performance. (The Argument for Debate, The Centre for Independent Studies)
Debating also encourages boys to think deeply and respectfully challenge ideas. They learn to use evidence, listen carefully, and respond thoughtfully—skills that build confidence and resilience. Importantly, debate promotes teamwork and active participation, making learning more engaging and memorable.
Beyond the classroom, these skills prepare students to be informed and responsible citizens. By learning how to express opinions and understand others, students develop a stronger sense of fairness, leadership and civic awareness.
Encouraging debating and public speaking in the primary years helps boys build strong foundations for future learning, empowering them to speak with confidence and think with clarity.
I am very pleased to announce that our two Year 6 teams both came way with a win and that Speaker of the Night awards were presented to Jack Dowling (Year 6) and Theo Mullins (Year 5).
A huge thank you must also go to Mrs. Susan Dean, Mrs. Sian Leszczynski., Mr. Danny O’Toole and Mrs. Kath Perotin for guiding the boys through the public speaking and debating program. Additionally, our thanks go to Ji Jenkijs, our Year 11 student who did an outstanding job of adjudicating on the evening.
We look forward to seeing the boys in action again at their next event which will be held on Tuesday 19 May.
Jemma Trendler
Head of Learning & Teaching (Primary School)