Latest News
Posted on February 12th 2025
Maxima wins Jack Petchey Speak Out
Maxima and Kadijat represented the Academy at the Southwark Regional Final of Jack Petchey's Speak Out Challenge, the largest public speaking programme in England.
The event, held in February, showcased the talents of 19 finalists selected from a pool of 852 participants across Southwark. Both Maxima and Kadijat gave amazing speeches to an appreciative audience at Notre Dame Roman Catholic Girls School.
Maxima, a Year 10 student, achieved a remarkable victory with her speech titled "Writing Against the World." According to the organisers from Speakers Trust, her speech “captivated the audience with its powerful message”.
Maxima, Year 10, delivers her remarkable speech on "Writing Against the World”. Her speech emphasised writing as a transformative and powerful tool that has significantly impacted both the world and individuals. Maxima encouraged everyone to embrace writing for personal growth and creativity. This compelling narrative not only resonated with the judges but also highlighted the importance of effective communication.
Maxima, Year 10, celebrates her victory in the Jack Petchey Speak Out Challenge.
Jack Petchey's Speak Out Challenge, managed by Speakers Trust and supported by the Jack Petchey Foundation, provides free communication skills training to Year 10 students in every state school in London and Essex.
Each year, over 30,000 young people are empowered through these workshops, fostering education, employability, and social change. We had six workshops for all of our Year 10 cohort in December, with the winners from each going forward to the Assembly Final. More information about the programme can be found at
Khadijat, Year 10, delivers her remarkable speech at the Speak Out Challenge.
