A Great Debate

A Day in the Life of Daisy (IB1)

For the past few terms Kyla and I have run a casual debating program where we consider topics we are all interested in, play games and discuss some debating theory.

Everyone has fairly different experiences with debating so our main aim is just to have some fun and try new things. We cover a range of topics including human cloning, the justice system and solving environmental issues.

Westbourne debating is quite casual and flexible, and so, each week’s activities are unique depending on what the team is feeling. For example, some weeks will involve an open debate where the focus is on coming up with arguments quickly rather than carrying out a structured debate, and other weeks we will go through theory or individually brainstorm for a topic.

One of my personal favourite memories from debating (and I think most of the team will agree) is when we did a mock trial. It was chaotic at times but it had a proper story line and solid arguments, and even our principal Ken got involved as a surprise witness.

All in all, I’m just so grateful to be given the opportunity to start activities like debating as part of CAS at Westbourne and to have our peers, many of whom have never debated before, come and support us.

I couldn’t think of a better way to spend my Friday mornings and recommend that everyone tries debating because it truly is so much fun.