St Francis Of Assisi Catholic Academy Trust
Pupils Shine at the Speak Out Challenge at St Mary’s Catholic School
A group of enthusiastic pupils from Year 4 to Year 8 across the St Francis of Assisi Catholic Academy Trust took part in the “Speak Out Challenge” to showcase their public speaking skills and share their views on a range of thought-provoking topics. The event was held at St Mary’s Catholic School on 4th June 2025.
The event was warmly hosted by two Sixth form students Jessica and Sofia of St Mary’s Catholic School, who welcomed the participants and introduced the programme. Both Jessica and Sofia are alumni of St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School (Waltham Cross), and have been at St Mary’s Catholic School since Year 7.
Jessica said, “We are so excited to see all these brave, talented speakers ready to take the stage and share their voices with us.”
Sofia encouraged the younger pupils, adding, “This is the perfect time for Year 4 to Year 8 students to build confidence, think clear, and find the courage to speak your mind through public speaking.”
Each year group was assigned a unique theme, designed encourage creativity, empathy, and critical thinking:
Year 4: “One issue that matters to me”
Year 5: “The change I want to see”
Year 6: “Sustainability and climate change – I would like to see”
Year 7: “How an act of kindness changed my day”
Year 8: “How social media affects teenagers”
After thoughtful deliberation by the judging panel, the winners from each year group were announced:
| Year |
Winners / Schools |
| Year 4 |
Blake, St Augustine’s Catholic Primary School |
| Year 5 | Evelyn, St Augustine’s Catholic Primary School |
| Year 6 |
Leo, St Thomas of Canterbury Catholic Primary School Sabrin, St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School (Bishop’s Stortford) |
| Year 7 | Rhalou, St Mary’s Catholic School |
| Year 8 | Sara, St Mary’s Catholic School |
Many pupils said they thoroughly enjoyed their first Speak Out Challenge and felt proud of their achievements.
Sabrin, a Year 6 pupil from St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School (Bishop’s Stortford) and one of the Year 6 winners, said she was surprised to receive the award. “I prepared my speech over the half- term break, from brainstorming ideas to finalising the draft. I am so thankful to my dad for helping me edit and giving me useful suggestions.”
Midhun, a Year 5 pupil from St Paul’s Catholic Primary School, also shared his experience. “I was nervous speaking in front of the audience during the event, but I think it was a great opportunity to build confidence and improve our communication skills.” he said.
