Archbishop Holgate's School Wins York Young Citizen's Public Speaking Competition on 18 May 2026

In an exciting display of talent and confidence, Archbishop Holgate’s School has emerged victorious at this year’s York Young Citizen’s Public Speaking Competition. The event, held on 18 May 2026, saw students from various secondary schools in York showcase their skills in public speaking, debating important topics that resonate with young people today.

Competition Overview

The public speaking competition is a popular annual event, designed to give young people a platform to express their thoughts and opinions. This year, students debated four thought-provoking topics:

• Smartphones make present-day life much better for children.

• York is a city with a past but no future.

• There is not enough for teenagers to do, we need…

• There should be a statue in York for…

Students from different schools competed fiercely, showcasing their ability to think critically and present their arguments persuasively. The event aimed not only to highlight their speaking skills but also to encourage them to engage with current issues that affect their lives.

Support and Organisation

The competition is organised by a steering group led by the City of York Council, in collaboration with the York Independent State Schools’ Partnership. This partnership aims to support local schools and promote educational initiatives. The trophies for the winners were crafted by York College, adding a special touch to the competition.

The Merchant Adventurers’ Hall generously provided the venue, creating a fitting backdrop for the event. This historic location is known for its beautiful architecture and has hosted many significant gatherings over the years.

Celebrating Young Talent

During the event, the Rt Hon Lord Mayor of York, Councillor Martin Rowley BEM, presented the winning trophy to Destiny and Milo, the representatives from Archbishop Holgate’s School. Their victory is a testament to their hard work and dedication in preparing for this competition.

Cllr Bob Webb, the council’s Executive Member for Children, Young People and Education, spoke highly of the event, stating, “Public speaking is such an important skill that many of us use as adults on a regular basis, but it takes practice and confidence to speak in front of others.” He emphasised the significance of giving young people a chance to have their voices heard.

He also expressed his admiration for the quality of the debates, noting that many of the participants displayed the potential to become future barristers, teachers, actors, and lecturers. The skills developed through public speaking can be invaluable as they move forward in their academic and professional careers.

The Importance of Public Speaking

Learning to speak in public is not only about delivering a message; it’s about building confidence, enhancing communication skills, and developing critical thinking. Events like the York Young Citizen’s Public Speaking Competition play a crucial role in helping young people prepare for the future. By participating, they learn to articulate their thoughts clearly and engage with others on various topics.

With the encouragement of supportive adults, including teachers and parents, students can overcome the anxiety that often comes with public speaking. This competition serves as a stepping stone for many, helping them to feel more confident in their abilities.

A Successful Event

This year’s competition was not only a success for the winners but also for all participants who took part. The event provided a wonderful opportunity for young people to practise their skills in a friendly and supportive environment. The positive feedback from attendees and participants alike highlights the importance of continuing such initiatives in the future.

As Cllr Webb concluded, “I’d like to thank the event organisers, and the school staff, parents, carers, and young people who’ve contributed to making this event such a success.” The collective effort of the community ensures that events like this can continue to thrive, providing invaluable experiences for young citizens of York.