Torquay students crowned UK public speaking champions

Three students have done their school and the Bay proud by landing a prestigious national title.

Torquay Girls’ Grammar School pupils Rosie Read, Mia Maddock and Hattie Eve travelled to Dartmouth House in London’s Mayfair to compete in the grand final of the English Speaking Union’s nationwide schools public speaking competition.

From over 300 schools, TGGS was one of the last six teams standing — a huge achievement in its own right. But then they went on to win the national title for the first time in the school’s history.

Alastair Endersby, head of politics at the school, said: “The three girls were truly inspirational to watch, giving strong performances individually — Mia as chair, Rosie as questioner and Hattie as speaker — and proving unbeatable as a team. 

Above: Champions Left to right Rosie, Hattie and Mia from Torquay Girls’ Grammar School with judges chair Susie Fowler-Watt at the final of the English Speaking Union Public Speaking competition

“For the first time in Torquay Girls’ Grammar School history, they brought home the trophy and are now the official ESU public speaking champions of 2024/25.

“Rosie was also awarded Best Questioner, a well deserved accolade as this is the second time Rosie has reached the grand final.

“This was a hugely prestigious event to take part in, and the grand final was the culmination of six months of hard work and commitment. 

“Overall, 1,400 students competed from over 300 schools. Huge congratulations to Rosie, Mia and Hattie for your achievement — we are so proud.”

The judges recognised a key part of the girls’ victory was their strong teamwork. 

Out of the six finalists, Torquay Girls’ Grammar School was the only entirely non-fee paying school. Many of the competing schools were highly prestigious private schools. 

The girls will be bringing the trophy into school along with their medals.

ESU alumna and former presenter of BBC Look East Susie Fowler-Watt, chair of the judges, said: “I've been judging this competition for many, many years now, and I have never seen a final of this standard, it’s been quite extraordinary. 

“Every single one of the students here today has skills that are going to make their adult life so much more successful. Oracy — being able to communicate, being able to make such strong arguments and being able to command an audience — is such a remarkable skill.”

Rosie said: “When I first heard about the competition I assumed I wouldn’t be able to do it, but it’s been really fun and interesting. I’m naturally very inquisitive and ask lots of questions, so it’s just being me, but being a bit more professional in the way I say things.”