TMC Open B Team
Our Year 11 Open B debating team travelled to Somerset College this week for their first round of the competition, prepared to argue the affirmative case with a challenging topic: “Instead of being elected, members of Parliament should be randomly selected.”
In the lead-up to the debate, students worked to construct a clear and defensible model. This required them to move beyond surface-level arguments and grapple with fundamental questions about democracy such as what it means to be represented, how decisions should be made, and whether fairness is better achieved through elections or alternative systems such as random selection.
Unfortunately, the opposing team was unable to attend on the evening. However, rather than losing the opportunity, our students presented their full case to the adjudicator. This allowed them to receive detailed and targeted feedback on both their model and their arguments.
The adjudicator commended the team on their thoughtful approach to a challenging topic and provided valuable insights into strengthening their comparative arguments, tightening their model, and sharpening their delivery.
While not quite the evening we had anticipated, it was nonetheless a highly worthwhile experience. The team gained important feedback, and they represented the College with confidence and integrity throughout.
Mrs Fiona Stevens - College Principal & Debating Coach
TMC Intermediate B Team
This week saw the first round of debates for our Intermediate (Years 9 and 10) Debating Team. James H, Felix H and Cassi B did an amazing job debating the merits, or lack thereof, of prioritising Vocational Skills in high school. The team presented a spirited defence of traditional educational models.
Though ultimately unsuccessful in this debate, all three students were passionate, articulate and considered in their speeches with excellent rebuttals. The Team's next debate will be in Week 3 next Term and no doubt they will continue to represent themselves, the College and the broader TMC community with pride.
Mr David Haskins - Debating Coach
What’s on the day:
KYLE: 314 points
WALTON: 236 points
NICHOLLS: 146 points
