By Tijana Birdjan

Dubbo College South Campus students won fourth place - from 300 contending teams - at the Western Region Debating Championship in Sydney.

South Campus head English teacher Lauren Ward said she is proud of Lucy Butcherine, Elizabeth Butcherine, Ava Forrester, and Claire Spence for competing in the Arts Unit Year 7 and 8.

“The team are not only highly skilled and technically strong debaters, but they also have a strong work ethic and support each other,” Mrs Ward told Dubbo Photo News.

“I have been privileged to coach such wonderful students.”

Mrs Ward praised the sport of debating as speakers hold critical-thinking, collaboration skills, quick thinking, and self-belief to compete.

“Students who debate have the chance to explore relevant issues and use logic and reasoning to present arguments,” she said.

“This is a life skill that can be used every day.

“Debating develops confidence, clarity, and communication skills.”

Mrs Ward said the school has a history of excelling in debating and public speaking competitions.

Across the three days, the students participated in debating workshops at the University of Sydney,

“It’s a great opportunity for the students to experience urban life during the three-day camp at the University of Sydney and build networks with debaters and coaches from all over the state,” Mrs Ward said.

Throughout training, the team was provided with feedback from adjudicator Janice Monk to strengthen the team’s capabilities.

Debating student Ava Forrester began debating to project her voice and share her opinions.

The competition asked debaters to speak about education, social media, religion, environment, and youth crime and punishment.

Ava told Dubbo Photo News her confidence has improved since she began debating.