The finalists for the John Fry Public Speaking Competition have been announced. We had three times the usual number of entries and so the standard was exceptionally high this year. All the staff who judged were struck by the articulate nature with which all entrants spoke on a variety of topics, and it was very enjoyable to hear their ideas and thoughts on such a range of issues beyond the curriculum.

Mr Daughton was extremely complimentary: ‘It made us very happy to listen to so many of you and we came away from the process deeply impressed by you all.’

Sahi K (Year 10), Evie M (Year 11), Issy N (Year 11), Arabella L (Year 12) and Emily S (Year 12) will all compete for the John Fry Public Speaking trophy on Wednesday 5 March.

Also this week, the English Department selected winners from Years 7, 8 and 9 in the Junior John Fry Competition. Congratulations to Lilia C (Year 7), Ophelia P B (Year 8) and Layla S (Year 9), who will all deliver their winning speeches as part of the John Fry final.

Below: the Junior John Fry entrants from Years 7, 8 and 9