Public speaking students were recognised at the school assembly this week.
Catherine McAuley students showcased outstanding talent and confidence in public speaking across the CSDA and Clift competitions, achieving success from zone level through to grand finals.
At the school assembly on Wednesday, 29th April, the school proudly recognised the achievements of students who participated in public speaking competitions throughout Term 1, showcasing confidence, creativity and exceptional communication skills.
12 students, with two representatives from each Year group, competed in the Catholic Schools Debating Association (CSDA) Public Speaking Competition. Students developed and delivered speeches on a variety of topics, including Masquerade and From a Distance, demonstrating both originality and depth of thought. The competition saw students progress through multiple stages, with strong representation from the zone round through to the Grand Final.
The following students were recognised for their participation and success:
Zone Finalists
Year 7 - Aisling A.
Year 8 - Sophia A.
Year 9 - Christina L.G. and Holly G.
Year 11 - Victoria Mc.
Year 12 - Erin M. and Rhea T.
Zone Final students.
Semi Finalists
Year 8 - Olivia I.
Year 10 - Crystal M.
Year 11 - Siya P.
Semi Final students Olivia I. Year 8, Crystal M. Year 10 and Siya P. Year 11.
Grand Final Achievements
Year 7 - Olive D. - 5th Place (topic was ‘Masquerade’)
Year 10 - Heidi S. - 1st Place (topic was ‘No need to speak, you only have to look’)
Grand Final students Olive D. Year 7 and Heidi S. Year 10.
In addition to the CSDA competition, Catherine McAuley students also participated in the Clift Public Speaking Competition, hosted by the Rotary Club of Parramatta. This competition aims to foster excellence in public speaking among young people in the Parramatta region.
Amelia L. and Christina L.G. represented the school with distinction, delivering thoughtful speeches on the topic ‘Service Beyond Self’.
Clift Public Speaking students Amelia L. and Christina L. G, Year 9.
Congratulations to all these students! Their achievements reflect the strength of the student voice within our school community.
Thomas Fraser | Debating Coordinator and HSIE Teacher
Catherine McAuley Westmead
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