One big thing that we learned from preparing for and competing in this event was how to improvise on the spot. We learned that even if we forgot our speech, we could improvise so it would not affect our delivery. Being the only Grade 6s in a Grade 8 to 10 competition was really intimidating at the start. It was super important to remember what we learned while we were preparing, and we knew we would do alright. Also, we distracted ourselves by talking to and encouraging each other.

One thing that we are all very proud of is our performance in the persuasive and after-dinner speaking categories. This involved writing a five to eight minute speech, and presenting it fully memorised. When preparing for and competing in this category, we learned how to write a speech on an interesting topic, and memorize it while making it engaging for the audience. I think we can all agree that we learned some skills that we will have forever, and that we’ll continue to use for public speaking and debating. There are so many skills to learn and we can keep improving until we master them. 

If you are thinking about joining the club next year you should definitely do it. Even if you have never debated before, joining the club will help you develop skills that you will use throughout your life. Also, participating creates many fun opportunities to compete in tournaments like we did, and to bond with your friends.