Debating

Debating teams are entered at all levels in the Wellington Regional Interschool Competition. A number of teams always reach the semi-finals and finals. In 2016 our Senior Certificate 1 team won their grade and the Senior Premier A Team won the Russell McVeagh Regional Champs. In 2017  our Prem A won the Wellington Championships and in 2018 Prem B won their grade and junior and senior teams won the regional Impromptu Champs. In 2019 Senior Certificate 1 won their grade and the Prem A team was regional champion with 2 students selected for the Wellington team. In 2020 Prem B, Senior Cert 1, and Junior Cert 2 all won their grade 2021 saw many teams in finals with Prem B winning their grade. 2022 Prem A won their grade and several of our teams were in Finals

Trials for the interschool teams will be held early in Term 1. Interschool debates take place in the evening or after school:

  • Senior Premier A and B; Tuesday evening
  • Senior Certificate; Thursday after school
  • Junior Premier; Tuesday late afternoon before Senior Premier A
  • Junior Certificate; Wednesday after school

In addition to the interschool competition, there is an excellent In-house competition for Years 9-13 run by senior students. Previous experience is not required for In-house debating and all interested students are placed in teams. Trials are not required. Debates take place at lunchtime.

With 150 students involved, debating is a very strong and popular Arts activity at Wellington College, and one which develops excellent skills in Public Speaking, structuring an argument, and critical thinking. The Staff vs Students Debate is always a highlight of Arts Week. 

LEVELS: Years 9-13

TRIALS: Trials are held at lunchtime early in Term 1. Watch for information in the Daily Notices.

COACHING: This usually takes place at lunchtime and occasionally after school. Coaching is provided by teachers and senior students and all team members are expected to attend. Coaching for junior in-house teams is carried out by senior students. 

COMPETITIONS: In-House competition: lunchtime.  Interschool competition: after school or in evenings, usually 4-5 times during Terms 1, 2, and 3.

COSTS: $25 for interschool debaters; $15 for In-house debaters. If you register for interschool and end up in an In-house team, you will get a refund. 

CONVENOR: Mr Tama Smith [email protected] or contact us HERE 

In-house Registration: Click here

Interschool Registration: Click here