PESA

About the Competition

PESA is a public-speaking competition open to students aged 15-18 years throughout Australia. It provides an excellent opportunity for students to build self-confidence and extend their skills in oral communication, speech writing and research. It aims to encourage and maintain the best use of clear and effective spoken English.

The competition encourages students from government, Catholic and independent schools to speak to their peers from other schools on topics they are passionate about.

Each year states and territories organise and conduct competitions at school, regional and state levels. State winners then go to the national final, which is held in the various states and territories on a rotational basis. The national winner competes at the International Public Speaking Competition in London, organised by the English Speaking Union.

In South Australia the competition is organised by members of the Penguin Club of Australia.

Award Prizes

Each finalist receives a trophy and certificate donated by the Plain English Speaking Award South Australia, The Penguin Club of Australia (South Australia) Incorporated and Adelaide Dickens Fellowship Inc. The Royal Commonwealth Society Perpetual School Trophy, donated by the Royal Commonwealth Society (South Australian Branch) Inc will be presented to the winner’s school.