NET Scheme News 2024 Summer issue 46

Public speaking is a fundamental life skill and an integral part of any educational curriculum. Every individual will need to speak in front of a large audience at least once in their lifetime. Building strong connections and partnerships with primary schools is also an area that receives a lot of attention, not only to make the transition from P6 to S1 more seamless, but to engage the wider community and showcase a secondary school’s curriculum programme. Raimondi College organised a public speaking competition between Raimondi College and Raimondi College Primary Section as a suitable way to encourage public speaking, while at the same time providing transition opportunities for P6 and S1-2 students to learn from each other. The Raimondi Inaugural Joint Schools Public Speaking Competition aimed to promote the development of public speaking and communication skills among students. It provided a unique platform for Raimondi students to challenge themselves, inspire their peers, and serve as role models for effective communication. The competition was also the launch pad for a new mentorship programme, where seasoned orators, overseen by the NET,worked closely with younger students to refine their speaking abilities and build new skills. The competition showcased the students’ creativity, confidence, and engagement. Mr Hugh Beames from the NET Section was invited as a special guest judge, providing students with the opportunity to learn from a seasoned professional. His insightful feedback and constructive criticism throughout the event undoubtedly left a lasting impact on the participants, inspiring them to further refine their public speaking skills. The competition was met with considerable enthusiasm and segues perfectly into the oncoming NET Section Time to Talk Public Speaking Competition. The 14 participants captivated the audience with their well-rehearsed and researched speeches, each presenting a unique perspective on one aspect of modern society. The judges focused on three main categories - creativity, confidence, and engagement - in awarding the prizes.The English Society also awarded a Popular Vote Prize for the most popular speech. To support the competition, Mr Beames gave feedback on the three focus areas for participants, namely creativity,confidence and engagement,advice suitable for speakers of any level. 14 NET Scheme News Issue 46 Public Speaking Public Speaking - Building Skills and Making Connections