Debate Program Update — Issue 20

The King’s-Edgehill School Debate Program enjoyed an exceptionally busy and rewarding fall season. Thursday practices focused on developing core debate skills, supported by a dynamic landscape of current events that provided rich material for discussion and practice rounds. These sessions offered students valuable opportunities to refine their thinking, strengthen their arguments, and confidently work with their growing skill sets.

Our season began at Sacred Heart School, where students competed in the NSDS Impromptu Tournament. Later that month, Molly Dickinson '26, Julien Gingras '27, and Isabelle Sampson '28 travelled to Portland, Maine, to represent King’s-Edgehill School at the International Independent School Public Speaking Competition, an outstanding accomplishment and learning experience on the global stage.

We concluded the fall by hosting the King’s-Edgehill Debate Tournament, welcoming over 75 students from across the province for a full day of spirited competition. The event was made possible through the incredible support of our families, faculty, and student volunteers, who served as gracious hosts to our visiting competitors and showcased the warmth of our school community.

The winter season is now underway, with Ruari Ryan '29 and Isabelle Sampson '28 travelling to Winnipeg, Manitoba, to represent Nova Scotia at the National Public Speaking Championships hosted by St. John’s-Ravenscourt School. We wish Izzy and Ruari the very best of luck as they prepare to take the national stage. We are proud of their dedication and know they will represent both our School and province with distinction.

Upon their return, our team will head to Halifax Grammar School for the NSDS Junior Provincials, followed by the Senior Provincials and the Donahoe Cup later this spring.

Our debate program continues to grow, fostering a vibrant community of students eager to think critically, engage thoughtfully with current events, and develop their voices at all levels of experience. We are always excited to welcome new members who are ready to challenge themselves and join this dynamic team.

Stay tuned for future updates as our debaters take on the opportunities the winter and spring seasons will bring.


Jenna Pennington