STUDENTS from The Castle School in Thornbury are celebrating after securing a place in the Bristol final of a national speaking competition.

The team won their heat of the ESU Churchill National Speaking Competition which was hosted at the school on November 17, seeing off rival teams from Badminton School, Clifton College and Colston’s School.

Castle School’s first team of Amelia Parre, Jack Moore and Josh Moore shared the overall victory with Badminton’s first team. 

Castle School’s second team of Lizzie O’Brien, Hannah Williams and Clarissa Millard also performed well, but unfortunately did not score high enough to qualify for the next round.

"It was really great to host this year's competition at The Castle School,” said Castle School headteacher Peter Smart.

“The quality of the debate was very high and the students clearly enjoyed this experience.” 

Castle’s winning speaker, Josh Moore, presented a passionate argument as to why the UK should not withdraw foreign aid from counties that kill endangered animals, whilst Lizzie O’Brien used her speech to warn that laughing gas is no laughing matter.

The teams were supported on the night by teachers Clio Corpe and Louise Branton, as well as fellow students, parents and members of the public who were invited to ask questions. 

Students had the opportunity to take part in workshops with professional speaker and business coach Julian Okoye in the run up to the event.

The Bristol final of the competition will be held at QEH School on January 19.