From superpowers to poetry: Students impress at ISA Public Speaking Competition at Gonville & Caius College, Cambridge

Students displayed their skills in oratory as they took part in the Independent Schools Association’s Public Speaking Competition at Gonville & Caius College in Cambridge.

There were 24 schools represented by the 39 finalists taking part last Tuesday (March 19).

Key Stage 2 pupils read a poem of their choice, while those from Key Stage 3 wrote and performed speeches on the theme ‘If I had a superpower it would be…’ and Key Stage 4 and 5 students gave theirs on the subject of ‘The most significant day of my life’.

The finalists had been selected from more than 120 entries to the competition, which was supported by the education charity the English Speaking Union.

Afterwards, one parent told the organiser: “Thank you so much for the wonderful experience. Arthur was so excited to perform at Cambridge University, it was a wonderful opportunity.”

And a representative from the judging panel said: “The judges were impressed by the high standard of entries. Everyone taking part should be proud of their work. There was clearly a lot of careful thought and preparation behind these performances, and participants approached the topics in creative and thoughtful ways.”

Results

Key Stage 2

1st: Arthur M, Benedict House Prep School - Vampire

2nd Matilda D, Cumnor House School for Girls – The Visitor

Judges’ Award: Shlok K, Littlegarth School – The Sea

Key Stage 3

1st: Ishani V, New Hall School – Polyglots Or The Worst Of The Lot?

2nd Charlie M, Claremont Prep School – If I Had A Superpower

Judges’ Award: Maleha J, Dwight School London – Power To Heal

Key Stage 4-5

1st: Carina C, Adcote School for Girls - Mother Tongue

2nd: Ethan B, Dwight School London – How Public Speaking Can Change the World

Judges’ Award: Eliza M, Dwight School London – The Day Feminism Found Me