Our Debating and Public Speaking programs both develop the requisite communication skills as well as the knowledge and attitudes necessary to examine issues with multiple perspectives of global significance.  Whilst debating is mostly a team pursuit based around a framework to win an argument, public speaking offers a choice of topics and impromptu scenarios for the individual. Both develop different ways to synthesise information and effectively communicate ideas. 

Our Public Speaking program commences in the Junior School, where Year 4 students are introduced to the intricacies of public speaking through specialised modules in social action, leadership programs, and the Year 4 PYP Exhibition. These foundational experiences serve as a precursor to the more sophisticated public speaking and debating programs that follow, equipping students with indispensable skills for their academic journey.  Students in Years 5 and 6 can participate in a variety of Public Speaking and Debating competitions over the year, including interschool competitions at regional and state levels.  

The College offers several public speaking opportunities for students in older year levels, with key events noted below. 

St Leonard’s College Public Speaking Competition
Students in Years 7 to 12 participate in the Norm Fary Public Speaking Competition run in their English classes.   

Interschool Public Speaking Competitions
The year-level winners of the St Leonard’s College Norm Fary Public Speaking Competition go on to represent the College in the ACS Public Speaking competition. 

The College has also experienced great success at the Australian Individual Debating and Public Speaking Championships (Years 9 to 11) and Speakfeast (Years 8 to 10) over recent years, claiming the title of Best Overall School on multiple occasions.   

Annually, our students actively engage in Public Speaking competitions facilitated by both the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA) and the Debaters Association of Victoria (DAV), offering a valuable avenue for their growth and expression.