Students step into the shoes of a new parliamentarian

A GROUP of Ballarat Specialist School literacy students have taken part in the national My First Speech competition.

The public speaking challenge tasks students in years years 10, 11 and 12 with writing and presenting a maiden 90-second speech, as if they were a new Member of the House of Representatives in Federal parliament.

Member for Ballarat Catherine King visited the BSS Farm Campus last week to meet students Yuma, Rylee, Henry and Evie, and hear some of their speeches.

Ms King also took questions from the students who were keen to gain some advice to improve their public speaking skills, and find out more about what it’s like to be a member of parliament.

Henry asked Ms King how she manages nervousness before speaking, Yuma wanted to know what Ms King does to recover when she gets stuck on an idea during a speech, and Evie asked about memorable advice Ms King has received in her career.

“Our students have traditionally struggled with communicating about what is important to them as young adults with disabilities in the community,” said literacy teacher Jaymie Wilson.

“The My First Speech program helped these students express themselves and have a voice.

“The students are very excited to have someone as respected as Catherine King spend time with them to develop that voice, and most importantly, listen to them.”

Ms King said public speaking is an important skill, and one she has developed over the last 25 years, but it can still be scary.

“The specialist school students are doing a fantastic job,” she said.

“These students are our future leaders and this process has given them the opportunity to learn about our democracy and talk about the issues that matter for them and their families and friends

“I’m sure the experience this year will empower students to get involved again when the 2026 competition opens next year.”