High school pupils from across Lanarkshire have been battling out to secure top prize at the 6th annual Lanarkshire Schools Speaking Competition.
The prestigious event, hosted by North Lanarkshire Council in Motherwell Concert Hall took place on Thursday 18 May 2023. The participating schools were Braidhurst High School and Dalziel High Schools from Motherwell, Carluke High School and Trinity High School from Rutherglen with talented pupils’ displaying their public speaking skills.
The initiative, introduced by the Lieutenancy of Lanarkshire, aims to encourage young people to actively participate in community life and recognise the contributions of those attaining British citizenship. As part of the Lieutenancy's program of school involvement, the Public Speaking Competition involves third-year pupils and focuses on fostering a culturally diverse society.
Lady Susan Haughey CBE, Lord Lieutenant of Lanarkshire said: “It was fantastic to see the enthusiasm and commitment displayed by all the participating pupils and teachers.
"The judging panel were delighted to witness the growing interest and involvement of Lanarkshire schools in promoting citizenship and embracing cultural diversity. Through initiatives like the Public Speaking Competition, we can empower young people to become citizenship ambassadors in their schools and communities."
The judging panel included, Anne Brophy, Partner at Brophy Carey & Co.; Graeme McLaughlin, Chief Inspector at Police Scotland; Kevin Moore OBE, Chairman of Business Therapies Ltd; and Gavin Whitefield, Vice Lord Lieutenant of Lanarkshire.
After a high quality and competitive series of speeches, Dalziel High School emerged as the winners of the 6th School Speaking Competition.
Prizes were awarded to recognise the exceptional efforts of the students. The winning school, Dalziel High School, received a trophy with their name inscribed and a smaller identical trophy to keep permanently. They were also awarded a prize of £500. The other three participating schools, Braidhurst, Carluke, and Trinity received prizes of £250 each.
Each individual participating pupil also received a £30 book token and a medal, acknowledging their work, commitment, and outstanding performance during the event.