Debating and Public Speaking play an important role in school life in St. Anne’s. Debating in St. Anne’s is introduced to all first year students where there is an emphasis on oral communication in English, Irish and language classrooms. Public speaking and debating teach the following:

• Self-confidence in general
• Confidence speaking in public
• Confidence to express opinions
• Research skills
• Listening skills

From second year students go on to debate in English and Irish Inter-school competitions. Students have taken part in:

• Concern Debating Competitions
• UCC Philosoph Debating Competitions
• Mental Health Public Speaking Competitions
• Comórtas Díospóireachta Gael Linn