Public Speaking & Debating

Public speaking and debating develops students' oral and written communication skills, research and teamwork skills. Through public speaking and debating, students engage in the artistry of oratory, learn to effectively present a point of view and also develop in confidence.

There are a number of opportunities for students from Years 7 to 12 to be involved in public speaking and debating, both within the College and external to the College.

Public Speaking

The Frayne Festival:

The Frayne Festival is a gathering of students from schools across Australia founded in the traditions of Mercy education. Students represent the College in the following categories:

•    Public Speaking (Year 12)
•    Debating (Year 11)
•    Speech choir (Year 9 and 10)

Debating

Debating is strongly supported at Mercy College. Each team that represents the College is provided with support from teachers who act as debating coaches.

Internal:

•    Staff/student debates

External:

•    The Debaters Association of Victoria (DAV) Debating Competition (Years 9 to 12)

Each year we have a number of teams involved in debating at each year level. Mercy College is the host school for the Coburg region.  Many of our teams over the years have reached the finals. In recent years a number of students have shown remarkable achievement by being nominated Best Speaker and winning a DAV Swanee award.