This year's Challenge has been a great success with all students in Years 7 to 10 participating, as well as a smaller number from Year 11. With valuable feedback and classes that help build confidence in this area, all students are able to address an audience.

Last week saw 20 finalists responding to the topics 'An Inspiration (Year 7) and 'Ahead of the Curve' in Years 10 & 11.

One of the adjudicators commented on the Year 7 Finals, saying,

Thank you for such an entertaining and inspirational delivery on the topic—An Inspiration. I was thoroughly captivated by your unique perspectives and truly enjoyed your personalised stories. When thoughts are combined with logic and an engaging delivery—the potential is limitless. All of you demonstrated such maturity beyond your years. Keep expressing those incredible ideas with us—what a joy to witness!

And on the Years 10 & 11 Finals:

What an incredible collection of voices. You all delivered confident and innovative interpretations of the Topic. The variety of ideas kept the audience engaged, and the entertaining, logical and witty deliveries allowed the seamless inclusion of current information. Keep speaking your truth; you have incredible power.

Congratulations to all our finalists:

Year 7: Jasmine Civardi, Mims Clarke, Mia Constantinidis, Sophia Dapas, Madeline Kralj, Annika Lo, Anastasia Mouzos, Lily Rofail, Syricia Rowston, Paige Valanidas and Tiffany Yi.

Years 10 & 11: Grace Du, Vahini Naido, Amelia Rand, Billie Ronis, Olivia Stavrakis, Talei Chang, Olivia Low, Nicoletta Stahoploulos, Katherine Zhang.

The placegetters for 2021 were:

Public Speaking Challenge Year 7 Finals

Winner: Anastasia Mouzos

Runner-up: Lily Rofail

Highly Commended: Sophia Dapas

Public Speaking Challenge Finals - Senior Division Years 10 & 11

Winner: Olivia Stavrakis

Runner-up: Vahini Naidoo

Highly Commended: Nicoletta Stathopoulos

Watch our wonderful public speakers in action at:

Junior Year 7

Senior Years 10 & 11