Performing Arts
Oratory
Speaking with Purpose
The Nudgee College Oratory Competition invites students in Years 5–12 to develop and present an original speech on a topic that matters to them. Established in 1900, it celebrates the College’s tradition of student voice and public speaking. Students develop confidence, clarity and conviction while communicating before a live audience, with opportunities for both experienced and emerging speakers to participate.
Strengthening Public Speaking
Developing the Speaker
Students learn how to shape an idea into a purposeful and engaging speech. This includes selecting a meaningful topic, developing a clear argument or message, organising ideas effectively and using language suited to both the subject and audience.
Preparation also focuses on delivery. Students develop pace, projection, expression, eye contact, gesture and presence, learning how these elements work together to strengthen communication. Through practice and feedback, students gain greater control over their delivery and become more confident responding to the demands of a live performance.
Oratory has been a part of my Nudgee journey since Year 5 and I have participated every year since. I have delivered speeches on everything from being a middle child to a formal crasher, artificial intelligence and the perfection of imperfection. It has given me a platform to speak about subjects of significance to me and the confidence to talk about personal topics in front of a crowd. Winning on several occasions has been rewarding but not as big a prize as the infinite benefits to my public speaking skills, such as the ability to engage the audience and to discern exactly what is worth saying.
Speaking with Purpose
A Voice for Every Student
The competition invites students to speak about issues, experiences and ideas that are important to them. Topics may be persuasive, reflective, informative or personal, allowing each student to approach the competition in a way that reflects his interests and individual voice.
Year-level time requirements provide an appropriate challenge as students progress through the College. Younger speakers build foundational confidence and structure, while senior students are expected to demonstrate greater depth, sophistication and command of their audience.
Confidence Beyond the Competition
The skills developed through oratory extend well beyond the stage. Students strengthen their ability to communicate in classrooms, leadership roles, interviews, presentations and community settings. They also learn to think carefully about their audience, respond to feedback and present ideas with confidence under pressure.
For many students, the most significant achievement is not simply receiving an award, but having the courage to stand before an audience and express an idea with sincerity and purpose.
