QAHS debating has officially commenced for 2026 with a keen sense of purpose, rigour and high expectations.
Following a competitive and thoughtful selection process, a dedicated cohort of students has earned their place in this year's team.
Through a strengths-based selection process, students were asked to articulate how their personal values and interests aligned with debating, and to demonstrate a clear commitment to consistent attendance and preparation. This reflective component reinforced that debating at QAHS is not merely an extracurricular activity, it is a serious academic and character-building pursuit.
As part of the selection process, students delivered impromptu speeches on complex and thought-provoking topics, including “The benefits of failure over success" and “The necessity of school rules." These tasks required agility of thought, intellectual courage and composure under pressure, which are hallmarks of effective debaters and clear demonstrations of the IB Learner Profile in action.
Throughout the process, students embodied the qualities of Thinkers and Communicators, constructing reasoned arguments with clarity and precision. Many demonstrated the willingness to take intellectual risks, speaking on unfamiliar topics with courage and conviction, as true Risk-takers in the best sense of the word.
A particularly impressive feature of this year's launch has been the leadership shown by our seasoned Open A debaters. These experienced students designed and delivered workshops for novice debaters, providing a comprehensive and detailed presentation on the rigours, rules and nuances of competitive debating. Their mentorship ensured that our newest team members feel informed, prepared and confident. In doing so, they modelled what it means to be caring and committed to collective excellence.
Debating remains one of the most prestigious and demanding academic competitions available to secondary students. Participation in the Gold Coast Debating Association competition places QAHS students in a highly competitive arena where intellectual discipline, strategic thinking and composure are tested each week. Our students are not simply participants - they are expected to represent the Academy with independence, professionalism and academic strength.
Importantly, the broader QAHS community has stepped forward in support. A number of adjudicators have committed to undertaking training with the Gold Coast Debating Association, ensuring that our students can compete at the highest level. This collective effort reflects a strong community belief in the value of debating as a vehicle for academic growth and confidence building.
Debating preparation is now in full momentum. Teams are collaboratively learning how to refine arguments, sharpen rebuttal strategies and strengthen their team-work processes ahead of the first round in Week 8.
Debating at QAHS continues to be a prestigious and competitive endeavour. We look forward to seeing our students rise to the challenge as they exhibit their critical thinking, courage under pressure and amaze us all with their compelling arguments.
Kary Stratton
A/HOD Contemporary Teaching and Learning
Debating Coordinator