Can lyrics really impact your life? 

On December 17th, we held our much-anticipated Public Speaking Competition 2024, bringing together 16 talented speakers to explore this fascinating theme: ‘Lyrics can have an impact on your life.’ 

The event showcased not only the eloquence and critical thinking of our students but also their creativity in tackling such a thought-provoking topic. 

One particularly powerful argument came from the controversial song ‘Do They Know It’s Christmas?’ While its lyrics raised global awareness, some speakers highlighted how they also carry contradictions, sparking debate about their true impact. 

Others shifted the conversation, questioning whether it’s not the lyrics but the music itself that leaves the greatest mark. One speaker cited the Mozart Effect, a theory suggesting that listening to classical music can improve IQ and enhance spatial reasoning—proving that music and its influence extend far beyond words. 

Perhaps the most memorable moment came when one student truly connected with the audience by reciting Liverpool’s famous motto, ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone,’ in both song and verse. It was a moving example of how lyrics can unite people, build communities, and inspire a sense of belonging. 

Celebrating Talent and Effort 

We’d like to extend our gratitude to Mrs O’Connor and the English Faculty for their hard work in organising such a successful event. A special thank you goes to alumna Bethan Crotty, who returned to support our students. Bethan, who left us in June 2023 with an A* in English Language and Literature, is now studying English at Durham University and continues to inspire the next generation. 

Congratulations to the winners on the day:

Why Public Speaking Matters 

Events like these highlight the importance of public speaking in schools. Whether students are defending their ideas, connecting with their peers, or presenting to a wider audience, public speaking builds confidence, critical thinking, and communication skills—qualities that are essential for success both inside and outside the classroom. 

We are so proud of all the speakers who took part, and we can’t wait to see where their voices take them in the future.