After a stint as an English curriculum advisor, Mr Clarke is back as head of the English department at Mullumbimby High School, and debating is back with the junior debate team going to state finals in early December.
Under the tutelage of Mr Clarke, and senior debaters Hazel Beaton and Eleanor Sena, the Year 7 students are in a Year 7-8 competition and have argued their way into being undefeated in their zone, and regional finals. They will be one of the top eight teams in the state finals, for a showdown over three days.
‘Debating taught me how to argue in a healthy way; I certainly wouldn’t be the same person without it. Honestly, I see such potential in the girls, I’m so proud of them for getting into state,’ said mentor Hazel Beaton.
Speaking to The Echo Mr Clarke said that debating requires oratorial skill, critical thinking, collaboration and a deep understanding of current social, cultural and political issues. He said they have performed with amazing skill and teamwork.
‘Debating is the ultimate forum for the education department’s focus on High Potential Gifted Education (HPGE) where rural students are able to enlighten our city counterparts on our unique challenges of housing, reduced public amenity, as well as climate challenges such as drought, fire and flood,’ he said.
Can you help?
Mullumbimby High School students will have to travel the furthest in the state to get to the finals and they are seeking any sponsorship from businesses in the Shire to help ease the cost burden on families. This could be in the form of prizes which we could raffle off (contact Mr Clarke on [email protected]), or by a direct contribution (contact [email protected]).
‘Debating means a lot to me; I never thought I could do public speaking but now I can speak in front of a crowd alone, or with my team. I’m so happy we made it to Sydney, and I cannot wait for the camp,’ said Rotem Eldar.
Purdey Killips agrees, saying, ‘debating is such a great learning opportunity, and Mr Clarke has been such a devoted mentor to us all. I’m so excited for this new adventure.’
‘I have learnt a lot in debating,’ explained Lilly Sheppard-Gunther. ‘My confidence and public speaking has definitely improved but also my teamwork, resilience and persistence have grown. I was super excited when I found out that we will get to go to Sydney.’
‘Let’s all get behind our wonderful young people,’ said Mr Clarke.
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