Debating, public speaking and the importance of oracy

This week the Archdale Debating teams had an impressive round of results, winning 7 of 8 debates (well done girls!). We also hosted the Dame Enid Lyons Oratory Competition this week, where Anna Satchithananan (Year 11) represented our school. Debating and public speaking are essential skills that we place high importance on teaching and modelling at Meriden. My thanks to Mrs Charlotte Yates, COLL of Speech, who supports so many girls developing these skills.

Beyond these cocurricular programs, the skills of oracy, public speaking and debating are also cultivated by classroom teachers every week at Meriden. Whether it be a class debate, a formal speech or presentation, developing oracy skills, helps girls to express their ideas clearly, think critically and build their confidence and self-expression. Engaging in debate with others helps students to evaluate different perspectives, build logical arguments, and respond to opposing viewpoints. This process strengthens reasoning abilities and promotes empathy and open-mindedness to different perspectives. It also teaches the girls how to support their opinions with evidence to develop a persuasive argument.

In a world in which public debate has become increasingly difficult to navigate, there is a temptation to just assert one’s opinion more loudly to be heard. However, genuine, robust discussion and debate require listening. Hearing other perspectives and weighing these before speaking. Perhaps this is what is lacking in public and political discourse?

To be an effective speaker, or debater, one must first be an attentive listener, to respond appropriately and engage in meaningful dialogue or land a message in a way that will resonate with the audience.
At Meriden, we want the girls to take time to listen, think and then step up with confidence to convey their own opinions and ideas in front of others. We are proud of the achievements of the girls this week, and hope every girl continues to develop their confidence to speak up and voice their ideas and views with others.

Proverbs 18:13 – To answer before listening, that is folly and shame.