The annual AHIGS Festival of Speech took place at Abbotsleigh on Friday 21 and Saturday 22 October. Established in 1996, the Festival of Speech has grown to become a much anticipated event on the girls’ school calendars.

 

Following on from the official opening and welcome on Friday afternoon, girls headed off to commence the debating and readings sections of the event.

 

Throughout the festival, 28 schools competed in sections including debating, prose reading, poetry reading, current affairs, religious and ethical questions, drama and public speaking. More than 1,000 students participated in the festival, from schools from as far away as Frensham, Canberra Girls’ Grammar and PLC Armidale.

 

‘The power of speech is important as we communicate with each other daily and as we make our way through this world,’ Abbotsleigh Headmistress Mrs Judith Poole said.

 

‘The intellectual process in formulating a persuasive argument and delivering it well is a vital skill for all leaders. We applaud all competitors for their courage and willingness to put themselves forward to represent their schools.’

 

On Saturday, a festival atmosphere abounded with a sausage sizzle, coffee cart and buskers entertaining girls and guests.

 

The event culminated with an awards ceremony on Saturday afternoon. PLC Sydney took out the overall competition, with SCEGGS Darlinghurst in second place and Pymble Ladies’ College third.