Frequently Asked Questions

I am a young person, can I register myself?

If you are in Year 11 or below you should be registered by your school, college or another organisation such as a club or church. Young people working or studying after Year 11 may register themselves if they prefer, but you must pay the £12 registration at the time of booking.

How do I contact you?

faith.bennett@asseteducation.co.uk

Do I have to come from Suffolk?

You should be a young person living in, or at school or college in Suffolk.

You should be a young person living in, or at school or college in Suffolk.

Yes. If you are thinking of using anything large or unexpected let us know so that we can accommodate it.

Can I use slides in my speech?

No, we are harnessing the power of the spoken word in this event! The exception is for young people who are using sign language or speaking in a language other than English and using presentation slides to translate.

Do I have to speak in English?

Your audience will want to understand the content of your speech, and while many may speak a variety of languages it’s fair to assume that English will be the predominantly understood language in the room, and we would encourage you to use English, or provide translation.

What happens if my speech is not 3 minutes?

You should practice and time your speech so that you are confident that it is long enough. If you go over 3 minutes you will be discreetly shown an orange card. If you go over 4 minutes you will be asked to finish your speech.

Can I use sign language only?

Absolutely, as with any other language than English, you will need to arrange for translation for the audience. This could be presentation slides which your accompanying person can click through as you speak, you can use an accompanying audio track or your accompanying person can translate for you

Can someone come with me?

Yes - If you are in Year 11 or below you must bring an appropriate adult to accompany you - this could be a parent or member of staff/volunteer from a club or church that you attend. If you are working or studying beyond Year 11 you may bring a friend or adult to support you.

What are the timings of the Heats?

2-2.30 Arrival and registration

2.30-3 Welcome and briefing

3-3.50 Heats Block 1

3.504.05 Comfort break

4.05-4.55 Heats Block 2

4.55 - 5.30 Judging

5.30-6.00 Announcement of Finalists

6.00 Event end

Who goes through to the final in April?

At the end of both the Ipswich and Lowestoft heat finalists will be announced in a range of age and subject categories. These finalists will be invited to the grand final, which is open to the public, in Ipswich in late April (date to be confirmed). This will take place at the University of Suffolk.

What happens next?

Once we have your registration form we'll be in touch to confirm your place and let you know further details about the heats - including tips for great speech preparation!

When is the deadline for entering?

13th March - but it is advisable to enter as soon as possible, as we expect places to fill quickly!