Rules & Frequently Asked Questions
This information is for schools, coaches and coordinators, students, families, adjudicators and members.
THE COMPETITION
When does the Gold Coast Debating competition take place?
The GCD competition begins in March and runs through until September. Debates are held on Wednesday afternoons/evenings at a variety of Gold Coast schools.
How is the competition structured?
The competition is first divided by year levels:
Years 8 and below may enter the Junior division.
Years 10 and below may enter the Intermediate division.
Years 12 and below may enter the Open division.
The competition is further split in two divisions: A and B. A Division is for students with reasonable to extensive debating experience who are interested in a competitive and, therefore, more structured experience. B Division is for students with limited-to-no debating experience, or limited competence/strength across debating skills, who are interested in a more flexible development experience.
Schools must bear responsibility for entering teams into the appropriate division in accordance with the above clauses. If a team with extensive experience and strength is found competing in a B division, for example, they may be asked to change divisions or face disqualification, at the discretion of the GCD Committee.
How is the competition structured?
The competition is first divided by year levels:
Years 8 and below may enter the Junior division.
Years 10 and below may enter the Intermediate division.
Years 12 and below may enter the Open division.
The competition is further split in two divisions: A and B. A Division is for students with reasonable to extensive debating experience who are interested in a competitive and, therefore, more structured experience. B Division is for students with limited-to-no debating experience, or limited competence/strength across debating skills, who are interested in a more flexible development experience.
Schools must bear responsibility for entering teams into the appropriate division in accordance with the above clauses. If a team with extensive experience and strength is found competing in a B division, for example, they may be asked to change divisions or face disqualification, at the discretion of the GCD Committee.