Students spoke with a confidence and clarity that left their teachers and parents in awe at the semi-final of the 2021 Botany-Randwick Public Speaking competition. Now, 13 progress to the grand final!

The inaugural Botany-Randwick Public Speaking Competition was created in line with Sydney Catholic Schools’ (SCS) priority to provide engaging, holistic learning experiences where children thrive academically.

This year 42 students from 14 primary schools competed in the competition’s semi-final, which was also live streamed on Zoom. Thirteen students will progress to the grand final at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School Randwick on Thursday 15 July.

 “The students spoke clearly with passion and commitment” – Margaret Holles

SCS’ Executive Director, Tony Farley, will be a guest speaker at the grand final. Local members of parliament – Marjorie O’Neill (Coogee), Michael Daley (Maroubra) and Ron Hoenig (Heffron) – will adjudicate.

The speeches will be live streamed for parents who cannot attend in person.

‘EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION IS AN ESSENTIAL SKILL’

Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Primary School Principal, Margaret Holles, was part of the competition’s organising committee.

“Our goal was for students to gain greater skills and confidence in their oral presentations and presenting their position on any topic,” Mrs Holles said.

“Effective communication is an essential skill for learning, problem solving, collaborating and building healthy relationships in life” – Margaret Holles

While many students favoured the topic ‘The internet has caused more problems than it has solved’ at the semis, others spoke eloquently about 200 Years of Catholic Education and the importance of treating elders with respect.

“Some of the audience could be …