Seaford's Public Speaking Teams took part in the Rotary Club Youth Speaks Competition this week. The Intermediate Team (Year 9) of Ben Twigger, Jay Christiansen and Annabel Powell won the first round of the Competition beating teams from Duke of Kent and Glebelands Schools. The Team examined the arguments for and against private education, with Ben also fielding an impromptu question from the moderator to round off the debate. 

Head of English Kevin Finniear, who runs the Debating Club at Seaford, said: “It was the first time for all of them and they put in a superb performance. I was particularly impressed with Ben as he was very nervous at the beginning, but really grew in confidence and also volunteered to answer the question from the floor.”

Seaford’s Senior Team of Emily Freud, Amelie Wright and Amy Allison missed out on first place by just one point. “They’re the best I've ever tutored and easily good enough to win a national competition,” said Kevin. “I was so impressed at how gracious they were in smiling, thanking all the judges and organisers and congratulating the winning team.”

The Intermediate Team progress to the next round of the competition in Ewhurst in February.