Just before lockdown, students travelled to Epping Secondary for the third round of the Victorian debating competition.

The VCE teams had a secret topic. This meant that students only had one hour of preparation and no electronic devices or teachers were permitted in the room as they developed their arguments. It was great to see students challenge themselves and enjoying the experience. I would like to take a moment to commend the VCE teams, as students used time during a busy assessment period to participate.

The D-grade team was tasked with arguing against free transport. The team walked away (excuse the pun) with another victory which is the third win for the Year 9s. Congratulations to Isla Rousakis who was awarded best speaker for the second time.

Here is a reflection from one of the VCE team members, Jackson Garrett:

Participating in the Penola Debating team is a way of learning that requires rapid and meaningful brainstorming coupled with powerful, convincing and well-structured debating. I have learned many lessons from my time on the team that connects with oral presentations, time management and team building skills. Most importantly, I believe that by contributing to the Debating team I have been equipped with the skills to look at a situation with an unbiased opinion thus allowing me to formulate reasonable viewpoints according to my allocated affirmative or negative position.