Debating & Public Speaking News

Public Speaking Update

St Leonard’s has also been performing well at a number of public speaking events across the state. The Debaters Association of Victoria held both their state Intermediate and Senior Public Speaking Award over the past two weekends, held at St Kevin’s College. Competitors compete in three rounds of public speaking against students from across the state in their age group including two impromptu rounds where students are only given five minutes to prepare a speech.

The students spoke on a range of issues including the harmful stereotypes that classic Disney Princess films promote, the inhumane treatment of stray cats and how cat cafes can help solve this issue and the problem of the western brain drain.

Impressively two of our students placed in the top 5 of their respective competitions,this places them as some of the strongest speakers in her year level across the entire state. In the Senior Division Callum Wilson (Year 11) placed fifth overall and in the Intermediate Division, Killian Greenan (Year 10) was announced as the Runner-Up. 

All the students should be proud of their effort and the high standard they displayed with every one of our students achieving an above average score.

Additionally on Tuesday 17th May, the regional heats of VCCA’s Plain English Speaking Award was held at Firbank Grammar School. Two students represented the college; Lola Ogunbambi (Year 11) and Ana Fernandes (Year 11). 

Against predominantly year 12s, both students excelled being particularly praised on their ability to command a large audience, have a natural and comprehensive structure and take unique interpretations of their impromptu topics.

To top the day off, Lola was announced as the Winner of the heat.. This accomplishment means that Lola is invited to partake in the State Semifinals which are too be held in June.