Carmel Junior Open Debating Success

Each year, the Junior Open Debating Tournament is held for year 9-10 students across Auckland. Debate teams gather to engage in critical discussions and develop skills such as communication, problem-solving, and public speaking. 

The tournament begins with 5 preliminary rounds. The first two rounds are prepared debates - where the topics are shared a week in advance - and the next two are advised - where the subject of the debate is shared a week in advance, and the actual topic is given with one hour's notice. The last of the preliminary rounds is completely impromptu, with 1 hour of preparation. 

Topics range from raising taxes on items high in sugar, to banning co-educational schools, to requiring parents to have a licence to raise a child. Through these interesting and at times controversial topics, students are encouraged to gain new perspectives, think outside the box, and construct coherent arguments. 

Carmel’s Junior Open Debate Team consists of 6 students from both years 9 & 10 who have varying amounts of debating experience. However, they all have a love for current events, analytical thinking, and public speaking. This year, the Carmel team won all 5 of their preliminary round debates and made it through to the Octofinals, placing 5th in Auckland! 

The Octofinals were held on the 4th of August at Lynfield College, where the team faced off against St Cuthbert's. After a thought-provoking debate on whether or not cars should be banned from the city centre, Carmel came out on top! Caitlyn Theron, Natalia Gonzales, and Erin Walker presented persuasive points with an added layer of humour that made the debate not only comprehensive but also exciting! Elliot also supported the team by attending the debate and offering important ideas during the 1 hour of preparation. 

Their next challenger in the Quarterfinals was St Kentigern’s College. This time, all 6 of the team members made it to the debate to help out! Cristal Cheng, Elliot Hou and Erin Walker debated, and Caitlyn, Hayley, and Natalia assisted. The debate topic was ‘This House Would not allow schools to expel or exclude students’. Yet again, the Carmel team won, making it into the semi-finals. The team gained valuable feedback from the three adjudicators on principal points, structuring their model and rebuttal. 

This is the furthest a Carmel Team has ever made it in the Junior Open Tournament, which is an amazing achievement for the year 9 and 10 students. Not only have they gained skills in public speaking, but they have also shown great teamwork, dedication, and the ability to always learn and improve. We wish them the very best for the semi-finals!

A special thank you to Mrs Sahinkaya and Mrs Allan who accompanied the girls to every debate, providing transport, support, and encouragement. 

Article by Angela Braganza