Public speaking is a skill that many young teenagers find daunting. Yet, through practice and perseverance, it becomes a gateway to an invaluable trait: confidence. At Wellington College, we understand the transformative power of oratory. That’s why we don’t just encourage our students to speak; we create deliberate opportunities and dedicate resources to nurture this essential life skill throughout their Wellington journey.
One shining example of this commitment is the Fourth Form’s annual Academic Balloon Debate. This year’s event celebrated non-Western changemakers, challenging students to research, embody, and present the legacy of their chosen figure in a compelling three-minute speech.
Preparation for the debate was both a rigorous and creative process. Students engaged in workshops led by Mrs Hamilton, where they honed advanced oratory techniques. These sessions went beyond surface-level public speaking skills, delving into how to craft speeches that combined factual precision with emotional resonance. Participants learned to structure their narratives with clarity, employing techniques such as signposting and rhetorical questions to captivate their audience.
The debate culminated in a lively final round judged by Mr Evans and Mrs Charlier. Six finalists delivered extraordinary performances, each bringing their chosen changemaker vividly to life.
Diane’s sincere tribute to Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the former King of Bhutan, highlighted his visionary leadership and commitment to Gross National Happiness. Harry delivered a calm and composed portrayal of Irena Sendler, capturing the profound bravery of this Holocaust heroine. Gayatri presented a vibrant and animated tribute to Wangari Maathai, the Kenyan environmentalist. Meanwhile, Raph took a creative approach to Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, the former President of Brazil. His speech opened with the question, “What do you call a hero?” and was marked by clever pacing and dynamic writing, earning him joint runner-up. Will, the other runner-up, delivered a passionate and energetic presentation on Wangari Maathai, combining a strong emotional connection with an engaging delivery.
One shining example of this commitment is the Fourth Form’s annual Academic Balloon Debate. This year’s event celebrated non-Western changemakers, challenging students to research, embody, and present the legacy of their chosen figure in a compelling three-minute speech.
Preparation for the debate was both a rigorous and creative process. Students engaged in workshops led by Mrs Hamilton, where they honed advanced oratory techniques. These sessions went beyond surface-level public speaking skills, delving into how to craft speeches that combined factual precision with emotional resonance. Participants learned to structure their narratives with clarity, employing techniques such as signposting and rhetorical questions to captivate their audience.
The overall winner of the Peter Mallison Prize for Academic Extension, Charlotte, gave an extraordinary performance as she brought to life the character of Jyotirao Phule, the Indian social reformer who fought tirelessly for social equality. Her bold and captivating presentation held the audience spellbound as she fully inhabited the character of her chosen figure, demonstrating both a profound understanding of his legacy and a natural flair for public speaking.
The final moments of the debate were particularly special, as last year’s winner, Nefeli, returned to present the award. Charlotte’s victory was well-deserved, but all the scholars should be commended for their outstanding performances. The Fourth Form Academic Balloon Debate was a celebration of intellect, creativity, and the art of communication. It served as a powerful reminder of the importance of recognising changemakers who have shaped their societies and inspired future generations. The students rose to the challenge with poise and passion, making this year’s event a truly remarkable occasion.