The English-Speaking Union

The ESU is a global charity and membership organisation empowering young people through education, competitions, cultural exchanges and events.

[The English-Speaking Union @theESU]

We are thrilled to share that we have recently received Commonwealth accreditation, formally recognising our work to champion civil society. We join more than 90 other accredited organisations working across peace, education, human rights, sustainability and more.

[The English-Speaking Union @theESU]

Our ESU volunteers help young people discover their voice, and that doesn't go unnoticed! 🌟

Here are just a few of the many positive comments from the teachers and students that have benefitted from the time you have given to our mission...

[The English-Speaking Union @theESU]

A huge congratulations to the winners of our ESU Public Speaking Competition 2026! After a day of sensational public speaking, one team and three individuals came out on top.

See below for who the winners were! 👇

Keep your eyes peeled, competition registration opens soon!

[The English-Speaking Union @theESU]

Our volunteers help make our mission possible, and what better way to show that than with a few statistics! 🌟

Take a look below for some of the highlights 👇

[The English-Speaking Union @theESU]

From competitor to mentor, Giulia Chiriac knows first-hand the transformative power of public speaking!

After becoming Romania’s ESU National Champion and Runner-Up in the 2024 International Public Speaking Competition, Giulia is now helping the next generation find their voice.

[The English-Speaking Union @theESU]

We’re delighted to welcome Andrew Graham-Dixon as a judge for this year’s PSC grand final! 🏆

One of the English-speaking world’s leading art critics, Andrew is renowned for his acclaimed television series, award-winning journalism and bestselling books on art and artists.

[The English-Speaking Union @theESU]

We’re pleased to welcome Russell Findlay, CEO of Speakers Trust, as a judge for this year’s PSC grand final on 1 June.

A long-standing leader in the non-profit sector, Russell has spent more than 20 years championing young voices through sport and education. 📢

[The English-Speaking Union @theESU]

We’re honoured to welcome Susan Acland-Hood, Permanent Secretary at the Department for Education, as a judge for this year’s ESU Public Speaking Competition grand final. Susan brings a wealth of experience to the competition and we're excited to welcome her to the panel. 🌟

[The English-Speaking Union @theESU]

We’re delighted to welcome Anita Anand, award-winning journalist, broadcaster, author and co-host of the hugely successful Empire podcast, as Chair Judge for this year’s ESU Public Speaking Competition Grand Final! We're so excited to have her on the panel. 📖

[The English-Speaking Union @theESU]

A massive welcome to the teams who will be competing in the Churchill Room Public Speaking Competition semi-final next Monday!

These teams have been through several rounds of heats to get to this point, and we're so excited to see them compete - good luck with your final prep!🌟

[The English-Speaking Union @theESU]

A huge welcome to the teams that will be competing in the Small Drawing Room semi-final of our ESU Public Speaking Competition, this time next week!

We're expecting a jam-packed day of public speaking excellence, and we can't wait to see what these schools have to offer. 🌟

[The English-Speaking Union @theESU]

Supporting the new education framework, our bespoke workshops empower educators with the tools they need to strengthen communication in the classroom. 🍎

Watch the full video: https://t.co/cEPY83A6hj
Book a workshop: https://t.co/KuJLGefmSG

[The English-Speaking Union @theESU]

Three students from English Martyrs’ School reached the regional finals of our Public Speaking Competition, a big achievement for first-time entrants! 🌟

We spoke to them about what makes ESU competitions different, and why they'd recommend it to others: https://t.co/o1I1W04dgs

[The English-Speaking Union @theESU]

Competition tips: Making it personal 🤔

The personal touches go a long way! This could be an anecdote, or a fresh perspective you have on an idea. These elements make a speech unique, helping you to stand out from the crowd.

[The English-Speaking Union @theESU]

ESU CPD helps you to strengthen student confidence and attainment, whilst also preparing you for the new primary and secondary school oracy frameworks.🌟

📖 Find out more: https://t.co/KuJLGefmSG

[The English-Speaking Union @theESU]

The semi and grand finals of our ESU Public Speaking Competition are right around the corner! So we have gone to some of our volunteer judges for their insider secrets on what it takes to win. 🤔

Spoiler, it's not just about what you say...

Read more: https://t.co/fXLasycVJL

[The English-Speaking Union @theESU]

Our Performing Shakespeare Competition reached new heights this year at the incredible Shakespeare North Playhouse, thanks to ESU supporter Caroline Stanley, The Countess of Derby, patron of the theatre.

Huge congratulations to Emmeline, who took the top prize. 🎭

[The English-Speaking Union @theESU]

Our Director of Global Engagement attended Romania’s Public Speaking Competition as a judge. The competition showcased the talent of more than 100 participants in this ESU's 30th anniversary year.

We look forward to welcoming this year’s winner, Teodora, to the IPSC in July!

[The English-Speaking Union @theESU]

In case you missed it! This time last week we held the finals day of our ESU Schools' Mace Debating Competition right here in Dartmouth House, crowing our 2026 champions, St Joseph's College. 🏆

Read more about the day on the ESU website: https://t.co/5perCTdJmu

[The English-Speaking Union @theESU]

The Aseeder Junior Public Speaking Competition is now fully booked! Thank you for the incredible level of interest you've shown in taking part.

We’re looking forward to welcoming all participants for what promises to be a brilliant event. See you there!