The Southend West MP joined local student Izzy Hilton at the ‘Jack Petchey’s Speak Out Challenge’ in Parliament on the 8th of March, a programme which trains up 30,000 young people a year in vital communication skills.
The expert-led course is managed and delivered by the Speakers Trust, the UK’s leading public speaking organisation, and has a particular focus on state school students across London and Essex.
Coming up from Westcliff High School for Girls, Izzy spoke with Anna on how the programme has helped amplify young people’s voices by both building their confidence and developing key skills to be confident orators.
The proof is in the pudding, as Izzy’s participation in the programme has led to her becoming both the Rochford Regional Champion and runner-up at the Grand Final in July of last year.
Talking about her experience as a Member of Parliament and the regular speeches she is enjoys making in the House of Commons, she emphasised the importance of building confidence in communication skills which are vital for the modern age.
Anna said,
“So delighted to welcome these amazing students to the Houses of Parliament, who are definitely the politicians of the future and have a seat reserved for them on the green benches!”
“Their confidence and passion is truly inspiring, speaking on some really hard hitting issues which will shape their future. Izzy – a homegrown Southend success story – should be proud of her amazing work.”
