Youth Public Speaking Competition

Organisers
● English-Speaking Union (ESU)
● ASEEDER
ESU, established in 1918, is long governed by a Royal Charrer, patronize by Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in 1957. Former British Prime Minister Sir Winston Churchill and His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh both serred as president. Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal now serres as President. Headquarrered at Darrmouth House in London, ESU, the organiser of the world’s most inffuential and authoritative English-speaking events, currently has branches in 54 countries, with over 1,000,000 youth engaging in ESU-organized English-speaking competitions.
Program Introduction
The English-Speaking Union runs a number of programmes bringing people from different countries together, including the International Public Speaking Competition (IPSC) for students aged 16-20, renowned as the Olympics of English public speaking. The ESU-Churchill Public Speaking Competition, sponsored by the International Churchill Society, is speciffcally for students in England and Wales. The ESU Youth Public Speaking Competition marks the first ESU event for young people aged 6-16 worldwide, aiming to nurrure exceptional communication skills and cross-cultural understanding in young minds.
In April 2025, the English-Speaking Union and ASEEDER offfcially formed a strategic parrnership to co-launch the ESU Youth Public Speaking Competition (YPSC). This international competition for young people aged 6-16 is inspired by the IPSC, the world's most inffuential international English public speaking competition (for students aged 16-20). Designed as a premium global stage for public speaking, the YPSC aims to foster future leaders with outstanding communication skills and cross-cultural understanding on a global scale.
ESU International Partners
YOUTH PUBLIC SPEAKING COMPETITION ABOUT ESU
The English-Speaking Union (ESU), established in 1918 and founded by Sir Evelyn Wrench, is one of the United Kingdom's oldest educational charities. ESU was founded in the belief that more effective communication between nations would lead to greater global understanding and, ultimately, world peace. ESU is long governed by a Royal Charrer, patronize by Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in 1957. Former British Prime Minister Sir Winston Churchill and His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh both serred as president. Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal now serres as President.
ASIA
Armenia
Azerbaijan
China
Bangladesh
India
Japan
Korea
Lebanon
Malaysia
Mongolia
Nepal
Pakistan
Philippines
Russia
Sri Lanka
Thailand
Turkey
Yemen
Norh America
Bermuda
Mexico
United States
South America
Argentina
Brazil
Chile
Africa
Mauritius
Morocco
Ghana
Nigeria
Rwanda
Uganda
Zimbabwe
Oceania
Australia
New Zealand
Europe
Albania
Belarus
Belgium
Bulgaria
Cyprus
Denmark
Estonia
Finland
France
Georgia
Germany
Hungar
Iceland
Italy
Kosovo
Latvia
Lithuania
Malta
Moldova
Norway
Poland
Porugal
Romania
Russia
Scotland
Serbia
Spain
Turkey
Ukraine
Netherlands
To give young people the speaking and listening skills and cultural understanding they need to thrive.
“ LISTEN SPEAK SUCCEED ”

Sir Winston Churchill
Chairman of the English-Speaking Union 1921-1925
Queen Elizabeth II
1957
Queen Elizabeth II awards the English-Speaking Union a royal charrer.
ESU Competitions
● ESU-CHURCHILL PUBLIC SPEAKING COMPETITIO
The prestigious ESU-Churchill Public Speaking Competition, sponsored by the International hurchill Society, is the largest such public speaking contest in England and Wales, reaching over tens of thousands of students with around 400 schools.
● SCHOOLS’ MACE
The Schools’ Mace, founded in 1957, is the oldest and largest debating competition for schools in England and Wales, involving over 300 schools each year. Teams typically hail from the UK's elite secondary schools (including Eton College, Westminster Academy, and St Paul's Girls' School, etc.). Many past participants have gone on to become politicians, lawyers, media professionals, and academic leaders.
DOROTHY BYRNE
President of Murray Edward College, CambridgeFormer Head of News and Current Affairs at Channel 4
Winner of the ESU Schools' Mace debating competition 1970

● PERFORMING SHAKESPEARE
Perorming Shakespeare is a nationwide drama competition hosted by ESU and is one of the UK's most influential youth drama education programs. It not only brings to life the Shakespeare study requirement in the curriculum, but also enables students to develop their creativity, confidence, and ability. It also allows finalists to perform at Shakespeare’s Globe.

INTERNATIONAL PUBLIC SPEAKING COMPETITION
ABOUT IPSC IPSC
International Public Speaking Competition (IPSC), established in 1980 by ESU, is one of the world's most influential English-speaking competitions for young people. It now reaches over one million young people aged 16 to 20 in more than 50 countries across the globe. IPSC adjudicators consist of international language education experts and renowned scholars. Award-winning participants are often seen as potential talents for future roles in diplomacy, international organizations, or multinational companies. The IPSC's certificate is highly esteemed in the realms of global higher education and professional careers.
In 2023-24, a total of 111, 205 students from around the world took part in the national and regional selections for the competition. Ultimately, only 39 participants were invited to London to compete for the global championship.
In China, the “21st Century Cup” National English Speaking Competition is the sole official qualifying event for the International Public Speaking Competition (IPSC). Winners of the national finals will advance to the IPSC China Representative Selection, competing for the opportunity to represent the country at the IPSC World Finals.
Liu Xin
Anchor at CGTN
IPSC WINNER 1996
Xia Peng
Founder of the YLYK
IPSC WINNER 2005
Yang Kangqi
Outstanding student from Fudan University
IPSC WINNER 2022
They have showcased the voice and talent of Chinese youth on the international stage.
Why YPSC
From Preliminary Round to Global Finals
Step-by-Step to Master Public Speaking Skills
Focus on Four Key Skill Sets
Improve Oracy Skills Comprehensively
Oracy is to speaking what numeracy is to mathematics or literacy to reading and writing -- It is a developable core skill.ESU Youth Public Speaking Competition is based on four oracy skill sets: reasoning and evidence, listening and response, expression and delivery, and organisation and prioritisation, empowering youth to express themselves confidently and fluently and enabling them to communicate effectively across cultures.
1In many parts of the country, over 50% of students start school lacking vital oracy skills.
2Young people who cannot express themselves verbally may suffer from behavioural problems, emotional and psychological difficulties, and, in some cases, may descend into criminality
1Spoken language plays a key role in cognitive development, helping children understand the world around them.
279% of secondary state school teachers (almost 4 in 5) think that developing their students’ confidence and competence in spoken language and listening skills would make the students more employable.
3Children with good communication skills are four times more likely to get five A*-Cs at GCSE.

Certificate of Participation & Glory Medals
Certified Excellence in Public Speaking

Certificates will be presented to all participating students, and medals will be awarded to outstanding performers.

Schools with 20 or more student participants will receive an award plaque.
Official Resources
Professional resources to enhance your public speaking skills

Learning Resources
Thoughtfully developed resources featuring diverse speech skills and practical tips to help students build their communication skills step by step

Teaching Resources
A host of ice-breaking games. These fun games can be used in any classroom and are guaranteed to get everyone talking and listening to each other.

ESU Video Examples
Curated collection of example videos from past participants, offering concrete examples that inspire and demonstrate effective communication techniques.
The First ESU English Public Speaking Competition for Teenagers Aged 16 and Under
ESU YOUTH PUBLIC SPEAKING COMPETITION A GLOBAL GATHERING FOR YOUNG ENGLISH SPEAKERS
The ESU Youth Public Speaking Competition is a new international competition jointly launched by the ESU and ASEEDER for young people aged 16 and under around the world. The competition consists of three stages: the Online Preliminary Round, the Asia Round, and the Global Finals. As they progress through the stages, participants will develop confidence in expression, active listening skills, and a deeper understanding of diverse perspectives, gaining abundant opportunities to showcase their talents on an international platform. The Asia Round and the Global Finals will feature Public Speaking and Oracy Skills Workshops, led by renowned coaches and adjudicators from the ESU. These events provide participants with expert guidance and hands-on experience to further enhance their public speaking skills.
ADVANCEMENT TRACK
Information
- Eligibility: Students aged 6-16
- Registration Deadline: November 8, 2025
- Task: Prepared speech
- Participation Format: Online video submission
- Submission Deadline: Before 18:00 on November 12, 2025
- Awards: Gold Award: Top 15%; Silver Award: Top 15.01 - 25%; Bronze Award: Top 25.01% - 50%
Categories:
Category | Age | The Year and Month of Birth |
---|---|---|
Primary School - Beginner | 6-7 | Born between Sep.1, 2017 and Aug.31, 2019 |
Primary School - Intermediate | 8-10 | Born between Sep.1, 2014 and Aug.31, 2017 |
Primary School - Advanced | 11-12 | Born between Sep.1, 2012 and Aug.31, 2014 |
Secondary School | 13-16 | Born between Sep.1, 2008 and Aug.31, 2012 |
* Please select the participation category strictly based on students' age. No cross-category participation.
* Students in the Beginner category are eligible to participate in Preliminary Round, while the Asia Round and Global Finals are exclusively open to the Intermediate and above.PARTICIPATION PROCESS
Primary School - Beginner | Primary School - Intermediate | Primary School - Advanced | Secondary School | |
Online Submission | Each participant is required to finish their speech from conducting independent research, refining their speech draft, recording their speech video, to submitting it to a designated platform | |||
2025 Theme | My Favorite Chinese Traditional Festival. |
My Favorite Piece of Chinese Wisdom. |
The world needs more creative thinkers than traditional problem-solvers. |
"Don't let what you cannot do interrere with what you can do." - John Wooden |
Format | Submit a 1-minute speech video online | Submit a 2-minute speech video online | Submit a 3-minute speech video online | Submit a 4-minute speech video online |
Evaluation Framework


VIDEO RECORDING REQUIREMENTS
- Language: English
- Format::Online submission
- Duration:he required duration for the speech video differs by categorr. Generally, the speech video should not exceed the stipulated time. It is recommended for parricipants to rehearse extensively before recording to ensure the ffnal submission adheres to the speciffed duration requirements.
- Equipment Requirements:A high-quality recording device (e.g., a smartphone, camera, tablet, laptop, or camcorder) is necessary. The device must remain stable throughout the recording process. During the assessment, the clarity and loudness of the expression will be considered; hence, external microphones are prohibited.
- Environment Requirements:Participants must be fully visible in the frame and ensure the examination space is well-lit and clear, with a quiet and non-distracting background. Recording in a bedroom is strictly forbidden.
- Dress Code:No fixed dress code. Participants may wear any comfortable clothing that facilitates movement. For speech segments involving props, participants can choose whether to use them. If props are used, please ensure your speech will not exceed the allotted time. Using props will not earn extra points.
- Recording Requirements:The entire speech video must be recorded in a single, uninterrupted take. Once recording begins, it cannot be paused and should only be stopped after the participant has finished all speech content. The speech video must ensure the synchronization of sound and video. No editing, either before or after recording. If the organizing committee detects any editing or clipping in the video, it will be deemed a violation of exam rules, resulting in the invalidation of the speech score.
- Submission Regulations:Participants are prohibited from submitting the same video multiple times (unless specifically requested by the organizing committee, such as due to technical issues affecting playback). Participants must not share the video on social media or use it for other examination purposes.
- Submission Deadline and Method:Participants must email the video and Word files of each applicant’s speech to the organizing committee at esuchina@seedasdan.org before 18:00 on November 12, 2025. The email subject should be formatted as "Full Name + School + Registration Category".
Fee:
Includes: Registration, assessment fee, certificate and medals. (Mailing charges are not included)
* After registration, you will receive a confirmation email, which includes reference academic materials.
Information
- Eligibility: Finalists with Gold, Silver, and Bronze Awards in the Preliminary Round
- Date: February, 2026 (Specific date TBD)
- Location: Macau, China
- Highlights: Public Speaking Masterclass, Prepared speech, Impromptu Speech
- Awards: Gold Award: Top 15%; Silver Award: Top 15.01 - 25%; Bronze Award: Top 25.01% - 50%
Asia Round Judge Panels

SARA M
Debating & Public Speaking Coach & Judge- Scotland Schools Debating Team Coach
- ESU Debate Academy Coach & Judge
- ESU Schools' Mace & Public Speaking Competition Judge
- Judge, World Schools Debating Championships
- Debate Judge, Cambridge Schools
TERESE W
ESU Debate and Public Speaking Judge
- Former Teacher of the Year
- ESU Debate and Public Speaking Judge
- Mayor of London’s Gold Club Award Recipient
- Leadership Consultant & Teacher Trainer qualified in: 21st Century Headship & School Mental Health Award Gold

RODRIGO S
Competitions Lead and Oracy Coach at ESU- Former Council Candidate & Civil Servant
- Political Adviser, Local Government Association
- Participant, Stunt Performers Academy, Los Angeles
- Holder of CMI Award in Coaching & Mentoring
- Recipient of the Diana, Princess of Wales Award for Community Outreach
GAVIN I
Head of Performance & Senior Coach
- Winner, Cambridge Union Debating Prize (2003)
- Champion Debater, Cambridge Union & European Championships
- Judge, Oxford Union & European Debating Championships
- Trainer of Adult Learners in Debating, Negotiation, Public Speaking & Presenting
The Global Finals of YPSC will take place at Gonville & Caius College, University of Cambridge. Established in 1348, the college is one of Cambridge’s oldest and most academically distinguished institutions, ranking as the fourrholdest college within the university and now among its largest. With an impressive track record of academic excellence, Gonville & Caius has produced 15 Nobel laureates —surpassed only by Trinity College —underscoring its outstanding scholarly inffuence.
Finalists who qualify for the Global Finals will have the chance to engage in an immersive learning experience at Gonville & Caius College, soaking in the rich historr and dynamic academic environment of this storied institution. They will also be invited to attend a traditional Cambridge High Table Dinner, giving them an upclose appreciation of the unique blend of British academic tradition and formal etiquette, creating an unforgettable and treasured milestone in their personal development.
Information
- Eligibility: Finalists with Gold, Silver, and Bronze Awards in the Asia Round
- Category: Primary School - Intermediate and above
- Date: August, 2026 (Specific date TBD)
- Location: London, UK
- Academic Session: 5-Day Public Speaking Bootcamp, British Student Friendship Tournament
- Non-Academic Session: London Tour

Learning these skills at this age puts you in such a good position for the rest of your life. To have confidence in how to construct an argument, how to tell stories, how to interact with an audience, and how to feel grounded in your delivery, is always going to be an asset going forward.
More than that though, this competition allows participants to realise that there are people from halfway around the world who they may have more in common with than someone who's in the same class as them at home. You start to see all the richness of difference and diversity, and how valuable that is.
-Panel Judge for IPSC 2023
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