District 201V6 Junior Public Speaking Program

Speaking in front of people has long been recognised as one of the foremost fears that people have to overcome in life – whether in the classroom or playground, and as we get older an interview, work or social situation, our ability to confidently communicate is vital.  How much easier these skills are to learn early on in life.  A clear & confident voice when speaking is an essential life skill that fosters self-esteem and confidence.

The ability to project one’s voice is a skill that everyone needs to learn in order to be heard when speaking.  This is a skill that comes naturally with practice, encouragement and opportunity.  Young students have an abundance of enthusiasm and this is the best time to develop these skills.  No matter how much someone knows about a topic, and how passionate they are about that topic – they also need to be able to convey this passion and enthusiasm through speech.

And Lions can give them that opportunity....

A little about the public speaking program...

This program is for primary school students in year 3 to 6 and has been running successfully since 2007 in the 201V6 District, originating as an idea from the Barham-Koondrook club.  The first few years it was just a few clubs participating, but the enthusiasm from teachers grew and more clubs across our District took it on.   In 2016 it became a Multiple District project, opening it up to all clubs across Australia.  Each year, more and more Schools, Clubs and Districts are becoming involved, we even have parents wanting to get their kids and schools involved.

This program aims to encourage students to participate in public speaking, help build their confidence and allow them the opportunity to hone their natural skills, in front of a variety of audiences, with the freedom to present their speech, unaided and uninhibited, allowing the audience to see their unique, charismatic personalities.

It allows students to use their imagination, as well as expanding their research skills and knowledge on the topics that are chosen each year.

It increases the student’s ability and opportunity to communicate to a wider audience – which includes their family, friends, teachers and Lions members.

Students really enjoy the program and reap the benefits for years to come.  Teachers are enjoying the program and making it part of their class curriculum as it incorporates story writing, research, speaking in front of the class, etc.

We have seen quiet, shy students, too timid to speak...stand up and deliver a speech that has simply blown judges away and they have gone on to win the Competition.  It’s amazing what this program can do for the kids that participate - not to mention the benefits that Club members receive as well.

Get involved with the YOUTH in your community…YOU’LL reap the benefits as much as they will!

What is the aim of this program?

To give students in Primary Schools the chance to develop their ability to speak in public, in a safe and nurturing environment.  This competition is run for primary students in Grades 3, 4, 5 & 6.

Why should Lions Clubs & Schools be involved?

• Similar programs often do not exist in our Primary Schools or are often difficult for them to access, particularly in remote and rural areas.
• Young students have an abundance of enthusiasm and self-confidence.  This program aims to build on this before they reach teenage years.
• Public speaking not only boosts a student's self-confidence but also helps them become better leaders and communicators. It also empowers them to successfully give a presentation in class, at work, or in other professional settings.
• This program helps to create a wonderful, long-lasting relationship between Lions and the schools in their community.