Congratulations to Oliver (lower sixth), for gaining third place for his speech ‘The Importance of Expertise’ at the UWS Foundation Schools’ public speaking competition at St Anne’s School.
Oliver identified recent trends in political populism and argued for a more rational form of political engagement and government. As well as arguing eloquently and persuasively, he managed to answer questions from the floor very skilfully. The judges and the staff at Queen Anne’s School were very impressed. Oliver will now give his talk to a middle school assembly in the hope of inspiring younger pupils with the power of the spoken word.
Esme and Siddiq also made an excellent showing with their speeches. Esme’s talk was titled ‘Sea Monsters’ and she used Japan’s recent reversion to whaling as a starting point for a discussion about humans’ misuse of sea animals. Siddiq’s ‘Immortality’ raised important issues about mortality and sustainability in our world.
The three students represented the school in a very positive manner with these talks. They also engaged in friendly discussion in a circle with the other students competing during the breaks.
Mr Healy (English Co-ordinator)