Public Speaking

Students at St Luke's are encouraged to participate in Debating and Public Speaking activities. The development of skills in analysis and practice in expressing ideas clearly, logically and persuasively equips our young people for their professional and personal lives beyond the School.

Students in Years 5 to 12 represent the School in the annual Independent Schools' Debating Association Competition. During Terms 1 and 2 students meet teams from other Independent Schools in their zone for weekly debates.

The Young Toastmasters course is organised annually for students in Years 8 to 12. The course offers skill development in the areas of impromptu speaking, formal, prepared speaking and parliamentary debate. The course culminates in a demonstration meeting that includes a speech contest.

A broad range of Public Speaking activities is available to students. St Luke's participates in the Rostrum Voice of Youth Competition, the Plain English Speaking Award, the Legacy Junior and Lions Youth of the Year Quest.

In the Mock Trial Competition, organised by the Law Society of New South Wales, Years 11 and 12 students have the opportunity to experience first hand the operations of a court trial. The competition provides a practical means of introducing students to the law and increases their understanding of the basis of our judicial system.

Students from St Luke's also take part in the High School Mooting Competition organised by Bond University.

Students from Year 11 Legal Studies have the opportunity to take part in the Perez de Cuellar Shield. This is a model United Nations Security Council Competition which seeks to engage students in a discussion of the issues that are facing the global community in the 21st century.