Competition Judge

Introduction

The English-Speaking Union (ESU), is a charity and membership organisation that works to give young people the speaking and listening skills and cross-cultural understanding they need to thrive. The ESU’s speech and debate programmes and international exchanges improve young people’s attainment, self-esteem and social skills, helping them to fulfil their potential and to change their lives and communities for the better.

We are looking for volunteers to help support and judge our competitions, please find details below:

• Schools’ Mace - The oldest debating competition for schools in England and Wales (ages 11-18)
• Public Speaking Competition - The largest such competition for schools in England and Wales (ages 13-16)
• Performing Shakespeare Competition - Students express their passion and imagination and compete for a chance to perform at Shakespeare’s Globe (ages 11-14)

You don’t need to be a debater or public speaker yourself – you just need to be enthusiastic about encouraging and inspiring young people to be the best they can be. There are opportunities throughout the year, each requiring around 4-5 hours’ commitment from late afternoon onwards. Full training is given, and it’s great fun, with students often covering thought-provoking topics from obesity and the NHS to Churchill and what defines happiness.

We look forward to welcoming you soon and can't wait to get you started!