Outstanding Public Speaking Results for OBHS Students

By Thomas Stevens | Posted: Monday December 4, 2017

Under the watchful eye of Old Boy Thomas Stevens, OBHS students have been sitting Speech NZ’s Public Speaking and Communication syllabi in the Shand at lunchtimes and after school for the past three years.

The syllabi covers a range of communication skills including informative and impromptu talks, social speeches and discussion skills. These are skills that the boys have been able to put into action in their school lives, including in their roles as Prefects and within their sporting and business competition teams. This also equips them with the necessary skills and confidence for their tertiary studies and in their professional careers.

Last year, two international students in year 13, whose English is their second language both passed their Certificate in Professional Speaking with Distinction, picking up skills that will help them in the workplace. Students from year 9 through to 13 have sat examinations across Grades 3 – 6, with some students receiving Honours Plus, the highest mark possible awarded on rare occasions for exceptional work.

 A special mention must go to Ben Hogan and Tom Sharp who received Honours and Honours Plus across their three Grade 6 modules this year, meaning both have been automatically nominated for Speech NZ scholarships, awarded to students in senior grades. These high marks are a testament to the boys’ work ethic and commitment.