Thomas Rickett from The Sixth Form College, Colchester, is the winner of the ESU East Region Sixth Form Online Public Speaking Competition 2025, presenting the challenge artificial intelligence could pose in the courtroom. The runner-up was Misaki Sherpa from Colchester County High School for Girls, who gave advice on overcoming the fear of the dentist.
Overall, 67 presentations were made over Zoom (an increase of 63 per cent on last year) in in-school heats starting in October, three semi-finals in late November and a final on 2 December. Schools taking part came from Cambridgeshire, Suffolk, Essex and Kent. This competition is for speakers only and the standard was notably high throughout with several of the judges’ decisions on a knife-edge. Content, delivery and the answering of questions were all considered. Participants were given a free choice of topic, which generated a wide range of speeches featuring not only current issues but also detailed explanations and personal reflections.
Other finalists were Anotidaishe Bhauti from St Benedict’s Catholic School, Bury St Edmunds (also a finalist last year), Titas Serpenskas from Brentwood School and Eniife Abitoye from Bedford Modern School. The adjudicators on this occasion were ESU Deputy Chair Professor James Raven, Co-chair of ESU Young Members’ Forum Louis Preston, and professional speaker and Young Campaigner of the Year 2025 Amelie Abass. Chair of Colchester branch Brian Cooke organised the competition and compered the events. Thanks to our volunteer judges who willingly gave of their time at the different stages of the competition.
