Abbotsholme YFC pupils did the school proud this weekend at the Young Farmers Clubs speaking competition.
Junior readers Rachel Ekstein, aged 14, Ollie Rhodes aged 13, and Henry Brotherton-Cottrell aged 11, won their competition so go forward to represent Staffordshire at east midlands areas.
The Intermediate brainstrust team comprising of Max Bettson-Burdett, Harriet Chiles, Alice Liddle and Reuben Wilderspin, – all in the Sixth Form at Abbotsholme – came third. They were a young team as this is open to Young Farmer members up to the age of 21; our oldest team member was 17. They had to debate some current topics which they were only given 15 minutes before the competition.
The Junior speaking team which included Max Bettson-Burdett, Jade Witcomb and Dominique Wilcox, all from Staffordshire, did really well in a strong class but unfortunately didn’t get placed. However Max Bettson-Burdett was asked to represent Staffordshire at the West Midland areas competition due to his excellent speaking skills and speaking for six minutes without notes, which is an incredible achievement.
“I felt quite shocked when I found out that I was picked, because I did not think I could do it because of my dyslexia.”
“I am optimistic about the competition and speaking again, and looking forward to it.”
Toby Hall was named junior member of the year. He is only 13 and was up against people aged 17 years old in age! He produced a CV, personal statement, a presentation and had an interview.
Christina Liddle, Head of Rural Estates and Education, and YFC staff member said, “I am just really proud of them all; it is a fantastic achievement.”
“Abbotsholme YFC is only one year old and the newest – and 10th– branch of Staffordshire YFC, and they all put so much effort and time into the club; it is really great to see them rewarded with these fantastic results.”