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Success for students at English Speaking Union

Last week, two Year 10 St Clement Danes teams competed in the Hertfordshire Final of the ESU Public Speaking Competition. St Clement Danes has a history of success in this competition, having qualified for the National Final twice in the past five years. Both of the teams this year had qualified for the Hertfordshire Final after winning their respective local heats and we were the only school at the final to be doubly represented.

Team 1 comprised of Francesca Dann, Alex Pullen and Milo Thomas. As Main Speaker, Alex delivered an engaging speech on Art History A Level, arguing that the subject not only teaches us about the history of arts and culture but can also teach us skills which equip us for change in the contemporary world. Francesca was composed and calm as Chairperson and Milo Thomas asked thoughtful and incisive questions as Questioner.

Team 2 was made up of Vinita Patel, Will Gauke and Louis Ertl. Main Speaker Will discussed the issue of creativity in a multimedia world, suggesting that technology creates the conditions for new ideas rather than stifling creativity. As Chairperson, Vinita immediately set the audience at ease with her warm manner whilst Louis was shrewd and challenging as Questioner.

The contest was of a very high standard, featuring a number of local grammar and private schools. A strong team from Haberdashers' Aske's Boys' School won first place and St Clement Danes Team 2 was awarded ‘Runner Up’. Congratulations to all who took part.

 

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29th January

Year 8 Swimmers Make Waves at County Championships

We are delighted to announce that two of our Year 8 pupils, Sam C and Grace F, have achieved significant success in the pool, qualifying for and competing at the prestigious County Swimming Championships. Qualification for Counties is a major milestone in the swimming world. To be eligible, swimmers must achieve strict published qualifying times and rank within the top 25 competitors in their age group across the entire county. Both students have demonstrated exceptional talent to reach this elite standard. Sam has secured his place in an incredible variety of events, demonstrating his versatility across both sprints and long-distance endurance races. Representing Berkhamsted Swim Club, Sam will be competing at the Westminster Lodge Leisure Centre in St Albans throughout January. His comprehensive schedule includes: Freestyle: 50m, 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, and 1500m Butterfly: 50m, 100m, and 200m Individual Medley: 100m, 200m, and 400m Matching this high standard of performance is Grace F, who represents the U13 age group. Grace has already secured a fantastic 9th place ranking in the county for the 100m breaststroke. Beyond this individual success, Grace is a dedicated member of Ricky Swim Club and a vital part of the SCD team, regularly representing the school in the Herts League. Reaching this level requires a sustained and high level of commitment. Over the past eight months, both swimmers have balanced intense training schedules and regular licensed galas alongside their academic studies. Their success is a testament not only to their athletic ability but also to their discipline and excellent time management. Please join us in congratulating Grace on her top10 ranking and wis