WITH the closing date of the annual Environmental Youth Speak Competition extended to February 7, Craigavon Borough Council is urging schools across the Borough to sign up and have their say!
Last year almost 2000 pupils across Northern Ireland participated in the prestigious public speaking competition, which is now in its 15th year. The event, organised by Southern Waste Management Partnership (SWAMP), aims to get children to think carefully about waste and recycling issues.
The competition is open to pupils from primary six and seven for the junior section and year eight, nine and 10 for the senior section, with a range of prizes for participating students and their schools, including the top prize of £500 as well as trophies, vouchers and goodie bags.
“Each year this competition continues to receive great support from the local schools throughout the Borough and we are encouraging them to sign up again this year and inviting those who have not taken part before to get involved.
“It is a great way for young people to become more aware of their environment and encourages them to have their say. Recycling is now such a normal part of everyday life, so this is an excellent way for young people to understand the importance of their recycling efforts and how they go on to help safeguard our environment for the future,” said Councillor Gemma McKenna, Chair of the Environmental Services Committee.
The pupils taking part will be asked to prepare a talk lasting between three and five minutes on ‘My Waste’s Got Talent: What Can It Become?’ for junior speakers and ‘The True Cost of Waste’ for senior speakers.
The Craigavon heats will take place on Monday, February 25 at Craigavon Civic and Conference Centre, with the winner from each section going on to compete in the Northern Ireland Grand Final against the winners from each of the other council areas.
Schools should have already received their information packs, but if you would like any more information, contact Jennifer on 3831 2467 or email jennifer.cunningham@craigavon.gov.uk.
