The Wairarapa intercollegiate debating competition was held in the last week of February at St Matthew’s Collegiate School.

Kuranui was very well represented, with two Year 9 teams, two Year 10 teams, and three Senior teams. Up against all the local colleges and in front of four judges, the Kuranui teams came away with a remarkable result, winning ten of the fourteen debates.

Each team competed in two debates each, giving each student a chance to find their strengths and stand out. English department Team Leader, Kathryn Homes was delighted about the result. “The win wasn’t that we took out ten debates,” explained Homes. “It was the fact the students really pushed themselves out of their comfort zone, and all spoke confidently in front of their audience.”

It is no surprise that Homes only had positive things to say about the 22 students. “Anytime we take our students anywhere, they shine in their kindness, humility, and manaakitanga. Wednesday was no different,” she said.

Although, there were definitely a few stand out students on the day. Year 10 student, Kolya Marks, stepped up incredibly, and competed in the senior team alongside Meg Hunter, and Joseph Laybourn. “He oozed charm,” said Homes, before adding “He totally nailed it.''

It is no secret that Marks has a bright future with his public speaking abilities, but he was not the only student that punched above his weight. Kuranui also had a Year 9 team competing in the year 10 competition. Esther Williams, Jayden Hartley de Gouveia, and Sam Thomson also spoke confidently and comfortably while competing. It is obvious that they were not out of place.

These three students were coached by former Kuranui Student and 2019 DUX, Caelum Greaves, while they were at Greytown School.  Greaves was an outstanding public speaker and debater and won a number of competitions while at the college.

A special mention is also owed to Year 10 student, Reese Matthews, who was a reserve for the Year 10 teams. With no intentions to compete on the day due to all members being available for the competition, Matthews was put on the spot, as one student was suddenly unable to debate. Matthews overcame her nerves and was a valuable member of her team.

Kuranui College has a brilliant group of students that will continue to grow and expand their natural talents. They are all quick and critical thinkers, which are fantastic skills to have. Thanks to the nurturing environment that Kuranui College’s English department offers, there is no need to worry, the students are in good hands.

Kuranui 2021 Intercollegiate debating students:

Written by Year 13 student Emma Rose. Article added: Tuesday 09 March 2021