Debating at QAHS is underway for 2026, with a dedicated cohort of students preparing to represent the Academy in the prestigious interschool competition run by the Gold Coast Debating Association. Following a thoughtful and rigorous selection process earlier this term, teams are now finalising their preparation ahead of Round 1, which will commence Wednesday of Week 8.
Students selected for the program demonstrated strong alignment with the values of debating through written reflections and impromptu speeches during trials. Throughout this process they embodied key attributes of the IB Learner Profile, particularly as Communicators, Thinkers and Risk-takers, engaging confidently with complex ideas and presenting arguments with clarity and composure.
Preparation is now well underway, with students working on the Long Preparation topics for the first round:
Open B: Instead of being elected, members of Parliament should be randomly selected
Inter A: We should criminally prosecute companies that use sweatshops
Inter B: Schools should prioritise vocational skills
Central to QAHS debating is a commitment to principled and respectful engagement. Students have already explored the “Golden Rules of Debating," which emphasise thoughtful and charismatic communication, respectful rebuttal, and a willingness to engage deeply with opposing viewpoints. Debaters are encouraged to demonstrate passion for their topic, link every argument clearly back to the motion, and approach debates with creativity and intellectual curiosity.
These principles closely reflect the IB ethos: approaching ideas with integrity, confidence and open-mindedness while striving for thoughtful and balanced argument.
Leadership within the program has also been recognised, with Debating Captains selected for their commitment to these values and for exemplifying the IB Learner Profile through their initiative, collaboration and mentorship of younger debaters.
Congratulations to 2026 QAHS Debating Captains:
- Kiara Pellegrino
- Adriana Smith
- Jelena Uzelac
With teams preparing enthusiastically for the season ahead, the QAHS community looks forward to seeing our students represent the Academy with confidence, independence and intellectual rigour when debating begins in Week 8.
Kary Stratton
A/HOD Contemporary Teaching and Learning / Debating Coordinator