Jack Petchey Regional Final

A big congratulation to Louis and Hattie for their brilliant speeches for the Jack Petchey Regional final (public speaking competition) on Monday 18th March, just before the Easter break.

It was a tough competition, but both students were so well-prepared and delivered powerful, confident speeches. They were so courageous too (speaking to an auditorium full of parents, friends and students from different Bexley schools).

Although they did not place within the first three positions, they performed very well and put the school in a good light. They were presented with certificates by the Deputy Mayor of Bexley, Councillor Nigel Betts. Well done again to Louis and Hattie - we are all very proud of you both!

Ms Adeaga, Leader of KS4 English

Here’s what Louis had to say about the whole experience:

We arrived at Chis and Sid at 4:00 and had a speaking workshop to improve our confidence. We had to write a speech, lasting from 1:30 to 3:00 mins, before the date. After having some delicious food and having a tech rehearsal, the final show came around. It was full of fantastic speeches with topics ranging from the power of writing to the meaning of life. It was a night full of food for thought.

Although it was very nerve-inducing, the audience, staff and other competitors were incredibly supportive, and I felt proud of how I spoke about my topic: challenging ableism. It was an amazing opportunity to make incredible friendships and I have kept in contact with almost everyone that I met there, and it is an experience I will never forget!

I encourage any current Year 9 students to look forward to next year, when they get a chance to perform a speech in front of their class, Year, or even in the regional final including judges such as previous winners, and seize the opportunity when it arises.

Finally, I would like to say a massive thank you to everyone involved in the competitions, from my friends and family who came, to workshop leaders like Sarah and Emily, to Hattie and all the other friends I met and of course the English department, especially Ms Adeaga, for organising and supporting us the whole time.

Louis Luckman, Year 10

Here’s what Hattie had to say:

On Monday 18th March, I went to Chis and Sid Grammar School to take part in the Jack Petchey Speak out Challenge Regional Finals, Bexley. The night was amazing! I arrived at 4:00 to have a workshop to build our confidence and get to know all the other students from Bexley Schools. After that, we performed our speeches in front of friends and family.

Unfortunately, we did not come in the top three. However, the night was great fun! I recommend this to everyone as it is a great night to improve confidence when speaking publicly!

Hattie Piggott-Denyer, Year 10