It was a winning week for Merrifield College and Preparatory School’s debaters, who delivered outstanding performances in competitions held between April 7 and 12.
In a tightly contested College fixture against Dale College, Merrifield’s senior team emerged victorious, with Rebekah du Preez named best speaker for the debate.
Meanwhile, Merrifield Preparatory School impressed in Round 1 of the National Debating League for primary schools, held on April 12. The National Debating League for Primary Schools is a competitive platform that encourages critical thinking, public speaking, and teamwork among young learners across SA.
It provides pupils with the opportunity to engage in structured debates on topical issues, helping them build confidence and communication skills. The league runs over multiple rounds and draws participation from schools nationwide. Buffalo City schools also in the league in addition to Merrifield include; Busy Bees Junior Primary School from Butterworth, Qumanco Great Place Primary from Qumanco and Stepping Stone Junior School from Komani.
Merrifield entered four teams, each competing in three rounds, and out of the 12 debates, Merrifield Prep secured 10 wins and scooped best speaker accolades in 10 of them.
Top speakers included Zoe Holloway and Claudia Nhawu, who each claimed the title in three debates, alongside Wonder Billie, Larissa Govender, Siwe Mxunyelwa, and Jessica Murphy.
The results reflect the school’s growing strength in public speaking and critical thinking at both junior and senior levels.
