Gifted Education Program News

Ms Majella Stevens

The English Speaking Union is an international organisation whose charter is to promote understanding and communication in and about the English language and culture, especially in Australia through education, social events and scholarship. One of the flagship programs of the Queensland Branch is the Public Speaking Competition for Junior (Year 7 and 8), Intermediate (Years 9 and 10) and Senior (Years 11 and 12) Divisions. Another is the Roly Sussex Short Story Competition for secondary school students and for adults. 

 

The Junior and Intermediate Public Speaking Competitions were held from Week 3 to Week 6 of Term 2. Remi de Nino 8S represented the College in the Junior Division on Monday 10 May, speaking on the topic “The mind is not a vessel to be filled, but a fire to be kindled” – Plutarch. This was a very hotly contested round, with 20 students participating. Unfortunately, Remi was not one of the eight finalists to proceed to the final, but he certainly acquitted himself well and received positive comments and encouragement from the judges. 

Remi de Nino represented the College in the Junior Division
Remi de Nino represented the College in the Junior Division
Joseph Lewis 10F
Joseph Lewis 10F

Joseph Lewis, 10F, spoke on a quote from Albert Einstein – “Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep balanced, you need to keep moving forward.” His interpretation of this quote won him a spot in the final, where he delivered another unique view on “The Networked You” along with a two-minute impromptu speech on “Making a Difference”. Joe’s combined efforts saw him awarded third place in the competition. 

 

The ESU will host a Senior Competition with heats on Monday 19 July and the final on Monday 9 August. The topic for the first round is another Plutarch quote - “I don’t need a friend who changes when I change and who nods when I nod; my shadow does that much better.” Any Year 11 or 12 students interested in participating should register with Ms Stevens today.