Howell’s proudly continued its tradition of fostering eloquence and confidence in young minds by hosting the 11th Annual English-Speaking Union (ESU) Primary Schools Public Speaking Workshop and Competition. On Wednesday 17th April, the Great Hall reverberated with enthusiasm as ten local primary schools, each represented by ten Year 5 students, convened under the expert guidance of Howell’s English teacher and Senior Leader, Tom Walters for a preparatory workshop on Public Speaking.
Following the engaging workshop to refine the participants’ oratory skills, the Great Hall again became the stage for the main event on Wednesday 1st May. Ten teams, comprising a Chair, Speaker, and Questioner, passionately presented their viewpoints on topics assigned during the workshop. All students and teams showcased remarkable talent, confidence and determination, delivering outstanding performances, congratulations to them all. Lakeside Primary School clinched the coveted first place with their impassioned presentation on sportsmanship in professional sports. Marlborough Primary School secured the runner-up position with a compelling argument around the inclusion of video games in the school curriculum, while Llanederyn Primary School impressed with their thought-provoking take on space exploration, earning them third place.
The competition was adjudicated by a distinguished panel, including Sue Clements, Martyn Hurst, Kathy Kettle, and Wayne Griffiths, all representatives from the ESU. Additionally, the evening was graced by the presence of the new High Sheriff of South Glamorgan, Mrs Janey Howell, who presented the winners with their prizes.
Huge congratulations to Howell’s competitors, Florrie, Mali, and Wynnie, who prepared and presented confidently and articulately.
We are enormously grateful to the ESU for their generous sponsorship and meticulous judging, to Tom Walters for his invaluable roles as host and workshop leader, to Janey Howell for so kindly presenting the prizes and to all attendees whose support ensured the success of this enriching event. Howell’s looks forward to nurturing future generations of articulate and confident speakers in the years to come.
