Opportunities

Competition Judge

Volunteer as a Competition Judge with the English-Speaking Union and help young people develop the public speaking, listening and debating skills they need to thrive now and in their futures. 



We run three national competitions: 

Mace Debating Competition 

Public Speaking Competition 

Performing Shakespeare Competition 



As a volunteer judge, you can support one, two or all three competitions, depending on your interests and availability — there is no need to commit to every competition. 



For each competition, you will be part of a judging panel of up to three judges. Your role will be to listen to and consider participants’ performances and provide constructive feedback, helping young people to develop their confidence and communication skills. 



Our competitions run from November to June, with opportunities to volunteer at different stages throughout the competition season. There will be opportunities to volunteer in areas in and around Walsall, as well as at competitions across England and Wales, so you can choose a location that suits you. 



Comprehensive training and ongoing support will be provided. You don’t need to be an experienced debater or public speaker to volunteer as a judge, a willingness to help, encourage and empower young people to find their voices and grow in confidence is enough. 



Interested in volunteering? You can express your interest by completing this form, and we’ll be in touch. You can also apply directly via: the ESU volunteer sign-up form https://www.esu.org/programmes/volunteer-sign-up-form/

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Organisation

The English Speaking Union

The English Speaking Union

The English-Speaking Union is an international charity and organisation. Our mission is to equip young people with the communication skills and cross-cultural understanding they need to thrive and build a more collaborative world.

We work with young people and their teachers to improve oracy skills, particularly in areas of disadvantage. Running three national and one international competition, we give young people the opportunity to hone these skills, and offer a variety of cultural exchanges for students, teachers and professionals alike to build relationships and strengthen connections across communities and countries.

We also run fun, games-led debate and public speaking curricula and workshops that encourage students to discuss a wide range of topical issues with an open mind. We guide schools on using oracy in the classroom as well as setting up and maintaining their own debate clubs, and provide teachers with a range of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) opportunities in the fields of speech and debate.