Students from Heart of England have been taking part in a public speaking competition organised by the Rotary Club as part of their Youth Speaks competition. English teacher Claire McLarnon writes about the event:
On one Saturday in February Year 10 students Laurence, Noor and Jess competed in the senior category of the Rotary Club public speaking regional heat. The youngest team amongst eight from around the Midlands, our students were debating whether it was the arts or the sciences which contributed most to humanity. Not the easiest of themes but they performed splendidly, amusing, informing and entertaining a packed hall full of people.
This year the competition has had a make-over and requires students to go head to head in a debate with a proposer, opposer and chair person. Our students delivered their well-researched thoughts and ideas with aplomb and considering that they were competing against other students in Year 13, they were thrilled to be placed third over all. The experience was a really positive one for all of them. Laurence is focusing upon public speaking as his skills element to his Duke of Edinburgh award, whilst Jess, already an able performer, wanted to refine her English writing skills. Noor is part of a fine family tradition of public speaking and was keen not just to follow in the footsteps of her brother Zeeshan but to better his performance!
The judges commended Heart of England School for an articulate, engaging and humorous debate and already we look forward to next year to taking away another trophy.