On Tuesday 1st April 2025, we held the Marsden Public Speaking Competition. At DCSF, we embody our MARK Values (Moral Integrity, Ambition, Responsibility, and Kindness). Through this, we work with students to create many opportunities for them to develop confidence and life skills, such as public speaking, in safe spaces where they can learn from mistakes and be celebrated in their successes. The Marsden Public Speaking Competition is just one of the many opportunities for students to shine.

The competition is named after the Reverend John Robert Marsden (1922-2014), affectionately known as “Jack”. He taught at Durham School from 1948 to 1985, starting as a Classics teacher, later becoming Chaplain and Second Master, and was renowned for his powers of oration.  

We were very kindly joined by adjudicator, Kirsty Robeson. Kirsty is a Development Consultant at the Glasshouse International Centre for Music (formerly Sage Gateshead) and a Trustee on the Board of the British Red Cross. These and other roles in her life require her to speak in public and she is keen to encourage the skill in young people.  

All finalists were amazing with a very wide breadth of topics covered expertly. All participants conducted themselves beautifully and spoke very well.  

Congratulations to our winners: 

Removes: Marcus H - Travels in Tokyo.  

Notes: Infectious enthusiasm and engagement with the audience. 

Intermediates: Dana - Mirror Mirror.  

Notes: Pressure on appearance - serious topic. Well-delivered with good engagement with the audience. 

Seniors: Ethan J – Time.  

Notes: Interesting and thought-provoking topic that ranged through, history, poetry and song lyrics- well delivered with warmth and humour. 

Thank you to the English Department who judged the initial rounds and to our adjudicator, Mrs. Kirsty Robeson for generously giving up her time to judge the final and for her comments to each of our finalists.