Speak your mind!

However academic you are, or however many good ideas you have – these talents may be wasted if you cannot communicate your brilliance effectively. With this in mind, 11 intrepid Year 10s and 11s recently became the first cohort at St Mary’s to take the demanding external English Speaking Board (ESB) Interview Skills Level 2 examination, which tested their presentation, interview, telephone and discussion skills to the full.

After some intensive training on public speaking techniques, presentation structure and anxiety control, the pupils tackled the examination with outstanding professionalism and confidence – gathering an impressive six Distinction and five Merit grades.

Congratulations to Rosa, Elise, Amber, Tilly, Amelia, Verity, Trinity and Alice (Year 11); and Anoushka, Molly and Holly (Year 10).

“From just one day here, I can see that this school provides a fantastic working environment with all the support, encouragement and expertise that is totally in keeping with the ESB ethos and intention to help candidates to become natural, confident, effective speakers in a range of circumstances,” commented the external ESB examiner.

“It was a very positive and valuable experience for these girls,” added Mrs Hilary Vipond, St Mary’s Principal. “All our teachers are keen to provide any opportunities that boost pupil confidence and communication skills as this can help so much, both with their academic learning and social development.  It was wonderful to see how supportive the girls were of each other as they worked to prepare their presentations and that they were able to overcome any nerves to give such excellent performances, enjoy the day and earn such superb results.”