Now in its eighth year, The West Midlands Speak Out Challenge aims to reach over 900 young people in state schools in Birmingham, Coventry and Solihull to take part in the 2024-25 Challenge.
How it Works:
“This was an excellent opportunity to allow students to combine academics and passion. It was also wonderful to see previously uncertain students become more confident.”
Teacher, Bournville School
As last year’s impact report shows, the programme has benefits for all who participate:
79% of students increased their ability to present ideas in an effective way when speaking in front of a group
87% of students have learnt skills they can apply in the next stage of their education, training and employment
Eligibility:
Schools in the local authorities of Birmingham, Coventry and Solihull are eligible for this subsidised programme.
Thanks to funding, the subsidised cost to schools is just £200 per workshop for 25-30 Year 10 students (normal price £660).
This includes a space place in the competition and the opportunity to be awarded West Midlands Speak Out Challenge Champion for 2024/2025!
“Allowing not only the gifted to thrive but also a platform to show those with low self esteem what they are capable of in a safe environment.”
Teacher, Bishop Walsh
Do you have a future Speak Out Challenge Champion amongst your Year 10s?
Watch this speech from last year’s West Midlands Final, to see what your students could achieve.
To get your school involved:
Contact hello@speakerstrust.org for more information or fill out this form to guarantee your space in the 2024-25 West Midlands Speak Out Challenge.
The students completed their speaking endorsement for their GCSE’s this week and due to the programme we have more students that have achieved merits and distinctions than in previous years, the students felt ready to deliver their speeches and answer questions about them, they even used the scaffolds from the sessions to replan and revise their talking points prior to delivery.
It was an enjoyable and productive day. The students were amazing and gave phenomenal speeches
My students have experienced something quite rare – the space to think and the freedom to speak about hopes and fears in an entertaining, mutually respectful and intellectually dynamic workshop. Many thanks
Participating in the Speak Out challenge gave me huge confidence to find my voice and be able to communicate effectively. I benefited massively as I went through my education, and continue to do so day to day in my professional career. It no doubt set me up for success!
The Speak Out challenge gave me a voice that I never knew that I had. It has played an integral part in boosting my confidence and also gave me a multitude of essential life skills that I constantly apply in my day to day life. That is why when the opportunity to become an Alumni Ambassador was offered to me, I felt so honoured to become a part of this wonderful process and hopefully help others gain these invaluable life skills and find their own voice.