The Jack Petchey Speak Out Challenge

Rafi Sandford

The Jack Petchey Speak Out Challenge, arguably a highlight of the Year 10 Hasmonean English calendar, was held in Whitefield School and featured students from all over Barnet. It was judged by a panel of experts from the communication and public speaking fields, including representatives from local government and BAFTA. Rafi Sandford’s practiced and skilful speech, demonstrated that he has a real flair for public speaking and it was clear that the audience and judges were impressed with his presentation. Performing an inspirational and uplifting speech about the universal language of music, Rafi put his busking skills to the test and had the audience, including several members of the Boys’ English Department, eating out the palm of his hand and on the edge of their seats, enthralled with his expert use of the English language. Rafi was supported by his friends and family and he made Hasmonean proud with his confidence and poise. Rafi has shown that public speaking is a real opportunity for our students to share their voices with the world and it was clear from the screams and cheers from the audience, that his performance will inspire other young people to Speak Out! We thank Rafi for his music, for giving it to us!