About the Schools’ Competition

There are three speakers in a debate. Many teams choose to have an extra 1-2 team members to allow for student illness and other unforeseen commitments. There is no maximum number of team members but smaller teams give students the opportunity to debate more often and grow their skills.

The competition is divided into six divisions:

• Year 5
• Year 6/7
• Year 8
• Year 9
• Year 10
• Senior: Combined Years 11 and 12

Students may debate in a division above their own. For example, a Year 9 team may enter with a combination of Year 9, Year 8 or younger students.

Teams are challenged to debate current and contemporary topics.

Debates are held approximately every 3 weeks during Terms 2 and 3.

Debates begin from 6:30pm. See draw for specific debate times.

Number of debates: 5, except Senior division which has 4 debates to accommodate student workload.
Finals: Quarter, Semi and Grand Finals –  see finals information.

There are a number of host schools across Adelaide. See venues.

All divisions, except Year 5, compete in finals at the end of Term 3.

The competition is governed by the rules and procedures outlined in the Rules and Procedures and The Official Debating Manual. There are also a range of helpful resources available for use.

Our fees are set to enable us to deliver a comprehensive and well-resourced program whilst offering substantial value for money for schools.

Each school will be charged an annual per school fee in addition to team fees of $110.