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 Debating is carried out competitively and socially. A wide variety of competitions are entered, with the School's Public Speaking team (Chalmers East and Rogerson East age) and two to three Sixth Form teams entering competitions as far as field as Durham. A pupil below the Sixth Form may enter these teams if he has exceptional talent.
The School also holds an annual Junior School Competition for the Pringle age-group, but which is organized by older pupils. There are social debates in the Houses in varying formats (Balloon Debates, for instance) and Open debates (open to all ages) on intellectual or topical themes which are often held at lunchtime.
Sixth Form
Most debating is done through competitions (Barclays sponsored - ESU, Durham University, The Cambridge Union and Edinburgh University's All Day Competition where we reached the final in 2001) and involves a small group (approximately eight boys from the Sixth Form) who have shown an interest in debating throughout their time at Merchiston; new blood is always welcome. Informal debates on topical issues are held from time to time, as are social debates with St George's School for Girls. There is also a Public Speaking Team. |
