On October 8, 2021, we received an email from the Barrié Foundation inviting Chester College International School to participate in the I School Oratory Tournament (also known as TEO - Torneo Escolar de Oratoria). This educational and engaging initiative aimed to develop students' public speaking and communication skills. We were thrilled by the opportunity, but we had no idea how enriching the experience would turn out to be for our students.
Once our registration was complete, Chester College teachers Mr. José Antonio Pazos and Miss Laura Diego dove into preparing for the tournament. In December, they both received comprehensive teacher training, covering all aspects of the competition. From learning about the various challenges to understanding the most important aspects of communication, the preparation was thorough. The goal was to equip our students with essential public speaking techniques.
In January, we assembled our student team, consisting of two Grade 3 students and three Grade 4 students. Weekly public speaking classes focused on essential communication elements such as non-verbal cues, persuasive speech, and speech structuring. Over four months, not only did our students develop public speaking skills, but they also learned more about their classmates through various challenges. For example, during the improvisation and "elevator pitch" activities, or in exercises discussing topics like “My Favourite Movie” or “Myself,” they shared new stories and discovered surprising details about one another.
Additionally, our students learned about significant historical figures like Rosalía de Castro, Marie Curie, and Pablo Picasso, and explored famous speeches like “Carpe Diem” from Dead Poets Society and Michelle Obama's powerful message to girls around the world.
On April 29, we participated in the preliminary phase of the public speaking tournament. The entire school rallied behind our little speakers as they showcased their hard work. Their dedication paid off when we qualified among the top 8 teams and advanced to the final round.
On May 27, our team participated in the final round of the School Oratory Tournament. While the competition was fierce, the real reward was the lesson of camaraderie and kindness. Our students approached the winning team to offer heartfelt congratulations, demonstrating true sportsmanship and forming new friendships along the way.
Each student grew in confidence and presence. Whether it was standing behind the lectern or bonding with children from other schools, they left the tournament with much more than public speaking skills. The memories, recognition, and friendships they formed have become some of their most cherished rewards.
