NOT one but two debate teams from Tavistock College have successfully made it through to the Southern final of Youth Speaks – beating off stiff competition during the district final. Both the intermediate and senior teams won their sections in the Rotary International Youth Speaks District Final 2007 on Saturday, March 3. For the local round, Tavistock teams competed against students from Kelly College at Tavistock College, then at Callington School for the district semi-final, and Hayle Community School for the district final. In the intermediate section the winning team comprised chairperson Robin Jones, speaker George Rodgers and vote of thanks Charlie Hubbard. Their subject was 'Sporting Heroes as Role Models'. The winning senior section team was chairperson Jack Shepherd, speaker Tom Rodgers and vote of thanks Adam Browner. Their subject was 'How to Surf a Lava Flow'. They have now made it through to the southern final this Saturday in Southampton where they will attempt to talk their way into the national finals at Loughborough. Rotary Youth Community chairman Jenny Metcalf said: 'Tavistock College had a triumphant afternoon at Hayle Community School. 'Both teams made confident, well thought out presentations. The speeches brought the house down and it was a wonderful day for Tavistock, organised so effectively by Sally Hubbard.' Coach and English teacher Mrs Hubbard said: 'It is wonderful to have two teams do so well from the school. They are brilliant kids and they were so on the ball and funny. 'I am so excited. The boys were obviously nervous but they came across as confident. They were quick witted and just wonderful. This is an amazing achievement.' Pictured from left to right are Jack Shepherd, George Rodgers, Tom Rodgers, Adam Browner, Charlie Hubbard and Robin Jones.
