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Students selected for English Speaking Union Branch Finals

The first round of the English Speaking Union Public Speaking Competition was held at St Clement Danes School on 7th December. Our students have previously been successful in reaching the National Finals of this nationwide competition.

Year 11 students Izzy Marston (Chairperson), Maxwell Duncan (Speaker) and Florence McGrath (Question Master) represented our school in the competition. The topic for their speech was ‘Would the world be a more peaceful place if it was governed by women?’ Maxwell argued that what is needed for a peaceful world is simply effective and capable leaders, irrespective of gender.

The chair and question master from each team ‘hosts’ a speaker from another team for their ‘presentation’: this arrangement allows for spontaneous debate on the topics once the main speech has been delivered. The speakers are also put on the spot by the audience who may question them on their topics.

Izzy and Florence joined a speaker from Haileybury College. The Haileybury speaker’s topic was 'Politicians deserve our respect, agree with them or not.’ Maxwell joined two students from Aylesbury Grammar School.

The SCD team were awarded the highest points on the night, and have therefore been selected to go forward to the Hertfordshire Branch Final on 1st February at Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ School in Elstree. St Clement Danes School was complimented on being ‘the best hosts in Herts!’

Best of luck to our students on 1st February!

Follow the link below to find out more about this nationwide competition.

http://www.esu.org/our-work/uk-public-speaking-competition

 

 

 

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19th December

Charities Week 2025

The halls of St Clement Danes School have been buzzing with holiday cheer this week as the annual Charities Week is officially in full swing. As the Autumn Term draws to a close, pupils and staff have united to raise vital funds for three incredible causes: Endometriosis UK, Spread a Smile, and Herts Young Homeless. The school is alive with the spirit of giving, driven by a jam packed ‘Advent’ schedule designed to get everyone involved in the fundraising efforts. This year’s itinerary has been filled with exciting activities, ranging from pupil led lessons and a "Mystery Bucket" challenge to the competitive excitement of the "Elf Auction" and various competitions. Pupils have also enjoyed the classic "Sponge the Teacher" event and a visit to Santa’s Grotto, ensuring the festive atmosphere is matched only by the community’s generosity. Beyond the classroom activities, pupils have been sharing the festive spirit with the wider community. On 18th December, the SCD Senior Choir paid a special visit to Chorleywood Manor Care Home. The residents were treated to a beautiful selection of Christmas carols, featuring performances by members of the Chamber Choir, Evensong Choir, and the Barbershop Choir. Year 12 pupils Immy and Chrissie noted that "it was a very joyful occasion and it was lovely to see the residents joining in and looking so happy." The success of such a busy week relies heavily on pupil leadership, and the school extends a massive vote of thanks to Year 13 for their incredible hard work and dedication. Their enthusiasm have been the driving force behind this week's fundraising efforts. The week is set to conclude on Friday with the Grand Finale: the highly anticipated Sixth Form Revue, promising a spectacular end to a week of community, charity and celebration.