The event was organised by Kate Daniell, the Trust Primary English Lead.  She said: "Each young speaker delivered a passionate speech on a topic that mattered to them. Subjects ranged from endangered white tigers to the importance of teaching drama in schools, with every pupil demonstrating clarity, confidence and enthusiasm".

The judging panel brought together voices from across the Trust community:

• Beth Taylor, CLT Trustee

• Alice, Year 8 student at Larkmead

• Connie, Year 12 student at King Alfred’s in Wantage

The judges praised the exceptionally high standard, noting how difficult it was to choose a winner. After thoughtful feedback to each competitor, the panel awarded Orest (Buckland Primary School) the title of Mini Speaks Champion 2025.

Beth Taylor, Trustee and judging panel member, said:

“I was delighted to serve on the judging panel for this year’s Mini Speaks competition, and I was genuinely blown away by the quality of the talks. Our Year 5 speakers showed maturity, passion and confidence well beyond their years, and choosing a winner was far from easy. It was equally inspiring to work alongside our student judges from King Alfred’s and Larkmead, who represented their schools brilliantly. Events like this really highlight what the Trust can achieve when our schools come together. I left feeling incredibly proud of every pupil and staff member involved.”

The Trust extends its congratulations to all eight competitors, and thanks the staff, pupils and families who made the event such a success.

We look forward to welcoming the next group of young speakers to Mini Speaks in 2026!