A number of girls from lower sixth have been very busy this month, preparing for and participating in two Public Speaking competitions.
First was the Business and Professional Women's Public Speaking Competition. Tavisha Sood took the role of speaker, addressing the 'Glass Ceiling Today', and Rebecca McAlees chaired the meeting with Tara Kane offering thanks on behalf of the assembled audience at the end. The judges praised the connection that the girls made with the audience, the considered discussion that was offered and the clarity of voice that carried to the assembled listeners. The team from Strathearn won the heat, and will be competing to become Northern Ireland champions at the final in February.
Next was the Soroptimist International Public Speaking Competition, where Tara Kane talked with honesty about 'What Brexit means for young people', and Jenna Montgomery thoughtfully assessed the question, 'Immigration - how open should our doors be?' Tavisha Sood took the floor to consider 'What is in store for my generation?' and emerged as the winner of the heat. She will be going to the Northern Ireland final in the new year.
Well done to all the pupils who entered these competitions. It takes considerable effort to research, write and redraft speeches like these, and courage to stand up and deliver them with confidence.
