Inspiring Young Voices at the Archdiocese of Liverpool’s Student Public Speaking Competition

Article brought to you by Freya-Jo from the Student Editorial Team!

On Tuesday 1st July, our school proudly hosted the Student Public Speaking Competition, organised by the Archdiocese of Liverpool. It was an exciting and inspiring event where students from schools across the city showcased their confidence and public speaking skills.

The overall aim of the competition is to foster strong presentation and communication skills in young people. These abilities are so important in all walks of life, especially in the business world, where clear speaking and confidence can open many doors.

Last year, Bosco student, and fellow student editor, Zuhra, brought home the winner’s trophy, and we were eager to keep hold of it for another year!

The event was hosted by Mr Gerard Preston, Archdiocese Lead, who warmly welcomed everyone and introduced each speaker. We were also delighted to welcome Joseph Roberts, a well-known poet who has written for the Premier League, Nike, and more (@officialjosephroberts). His visit made the day even more special, and it was inspiring to hear about his work.

There were 11 contestants in total, each delivering a three-minute speech on a chosen topic from a set list. A panel of three judges, led by Deacon Paul Mannings, carefully scored each speech on content, delivery, and presentation. After the final speech, Deacon Paul praised the talent and courage of every participant, saying how impressed the judges were with the standard on display.

A standout moment for me personally came from Helena, a St John Bosco student and the only Year 7 to take part in the competition. Her speech was based on the thought-provoking topic:
“There comes a time when silence is betrayal,” a powerful quote by Martin Luther King.
Her speech included the hard-hitting line:

"They are rule breakers, and sometimes rule breakers change the world. They rewrite the book."

While the judges made their final decision, refreshments were served in the hall. It was a nerve-wracking wait for all the speakers, but everyone chatted and shared their favourite moments from the event.

Then, it was time for the results:

1st place: Ellis (Archbishop Beck Catholic College)
2nd place: Ava (Archbishop Beck Catholic College)
3rd place: Kristen (Academy of St Francis of Assisi)

A huge congratulations to the winners! Every student received a certificate and a £10 book token for taking part.

A big thank you to all the schools who took part:

• St Julie’s Catholic High School

• Archbishop Beck Catholic College

• St Edward’s College

• St John Bosco Arts College

• Academy of St Francis of Assisi

• The Academy of St Nicholas

It was a truly wonderful day of speeches, ideas, and inspiration, and we can’t wait to see what next year’s competition will bring.