So said Solicitor Penny Carey, Dean of Law School, University of Hertfordshire, and Chair of judges for the fourth Province 14 Catenian Association Sixth Form Public Speaking Challenge. ‘The standard this year was even higher and with more schools taking part the Province 14 competition is clearly going from strength to strength.’
The competition was won by Daniel Moloney, of Finchley Catholic High School, London, who said, ‘I was delighted to win the competition, if a little shocked. I was especially happy as the standard of speakers was so high, and it was the first time my school had won. I picked the topic of Foreign Aid as it is something that is frequently criticised by people saying it would be better spent domestically, and I wanted to highlight the success it has had in the past and how this can be applied to current problems.’
The school said they were delighted that Daniel had been able to showcase his considerable public speaking talents and that he chose such a relevant and current topic to speak about. ‘He continues to be an extremely positive role model for our community. His success is very well deserved, and we remain very proud of him.’
Abigial Kimpalu, of St Thomas More Catholic School, Wood Green whose subject was ‘Wake up, Work Hard’ was clearly surprised to be runner-up, judging by the look of astonishment and delight on her face when the results were announced.
Catenian Provincial President of Province 14, John Mulligan, praised the students for making this year’s event so competitive, the teachers of all the schools involved for coaching and encouraging their students to take part, the judges who had the extremely difficult job of selecting the winners and the University of Hertfordshire for hosting the event for the second year in succession. The winner will represent Province 14 in the National Final to be held in Manchester in September.
Fr Mark Walker, Westminster Diocesan Youth Chaplain, and Catenian Denis Murphy, Director of Province 14, completed the judging panel.
More information about the Sixth Form Catenian Public Speaking Competition can be found by visiting; www.thecatenians.com or by emailing Province 14 organiser Dennis Cooper, at dennis29@virginmedia.com.
