English Speaking Union Bristol heats

Hosting the Bristol finals of the English Speaking Union - including The Castle School, Cotham School, St Bede's state schools.

Aims

To improve students' public speaking skills and debate.

Background

The Deputy Head of English started this program.

We have entered teams for ESU for over a decade.

Resources

Use of main hall; provided refreshments for audience and ESU staff; teaching staff and sixth form volunteers helped to run and organise it for state schools who cannot provide catering after school hours.

Impact

Improvement in pupils' confidence in speaking in front of an audience.

Outcome: our school reached the national finals last year but all teams benefit in terms of confidence and skills.

Pupil Involvement

Y10 and Y11 teams of 3 students.

Frequency

Annual.