The Director of Articulacy, Julia Ward, has spent the day with some of our Year 10 students to equip them with important life skills they will need when they enter further education or the world of employment.

The session was funded by Next Steps South West. During the day, the 13 students explored:

• how they present themselves
• self-confidence
• body language
• how to conduct themselves at an interview
• preparing for applications
• CV writing skills

The students learnt the importance of making a good impression and building trust by genuine smiling, using positive language while talking, and active listening. They each got the chance to show these skills in a ‘Blow Your Own Trumpet’ presentation to the rest of the group.

Julia explained why these skills are key for students as they prepare to leave College: “They will need positivity and confidence when they are competing for places at university and at work - because they will face competition. If they are confident about who they are and can communicate with confidence, they will be streets ahead of others.

“So, this session is about talking positively about themselves, and being proud of themselves and what they do. It is giving them a voice to stand up and not worry about what other people say about them, to be confident to be themselves.”

Articulacy’s mission is to inspire all people regardless of their age or ability to become confident and articulate individuals, capable of delivering their messages in professional and personal situations, no matter how challenging.

Our students found the day very helpful. Ria from Year 10 said: “This has helped my confidence, not just in preparing for jobs but in daily life. It has given me an idea of what to expect in interviews and would help in any public speaking event.”

Kate Gannon, Next Steps South West Coordinator at the College, said: “This is such a fantastic masterclass that not only helps to improve articulacy but encourages the students to overcome anxiety around public speaking or interviews.

“Over the last couple of years, I have noticed a discernible improvement in all of the students' self-confidence who took part. These are essential life skills that can really prepare students for their chosen vocation and improve their applications for any pathway they choose to pursue during their career.”
www.articulacy.co.uk