The Rotary Club of Glossop is again sponsoring local school teams in this competition. The competition is for secondary schools and divided into two. The intermediate group covers Years 7 to 9, while the senior group includes Years 10 to 13. The Club runs an initial round and the successful teams go forward to our District competition and National Finals.

Each team is made up of a chairperson who introduces the team, a speaker who makes the presentation and a person who gives a vote of thanks. These respective tasks are carried out within precise time limits. There are three judges who make the final decision.

The first round was in early January 2008. It involved two local schools and from this competition one team was put forward at intermediate level and two teams at senior level. All three teams came from the St. Philip Howard Sports College and went on to compete at the District heats in late January. The outcome was that our intermediate team and one of the senior teams moved forward to the district finals, held on the 3rd February. The St. Philip Howard Sports College Intermediate Team won this competition and will compete again at the Area/Regional Finals in early April. The senior team were up against formidable competitors from schools with 6th Forms but acquitted themselves well, the team's speaker carrying off the best individual performance award at senior level. We congratulate them on their contribution to the competition.

Juniors Speak

We ran this competition just for Glossopdale primary school children. We had seven schools wishing to take part, but finally this came down to five. The competition was held at St. Lukes C of E school on Tuesday 16th October 2007.

Each school entered one team only and the team of three comprised:- a chairperson, a speaker and a person giving a vote of thanks. They presented, talked and concluded on a subject of their own choosing (but avoiding religion and politics) over a total of 5 to 6 minutes. Prizes were made to the school and to the individual winners, certificates were presented to every participant. While the judges made their deliberations, tea, coffee and soft drinks with biscuits were served. Teachers, parents, relations and friends were welcomed and supported this event.

It was a real 'fun' evening, bringing pupils, parents, staff and Rotarians together.

Youth Presents Music

This is not a competition but rather an occasion when musicians can get together and show off their skills and creativity. It is organised by the Rotary District and the Rotary Club of Glossop will be delighted to sponsor musicians in local schools who want to perform in public.

Junior Chess Tournament

The Rotary Club of Glossop is pleased to once again support this tournament which is open to all local primary schools.

Date of tournament to be announced.

Young Chef

In 2005 we sponsored two students from Longdendale Community Language College, who were commended on their high standard of cuisine. Secondary college young persons in Year 9 are asked to prepare, cook and serve a 3 course healthy meal for 2 people.

We are now at the beginning of the 2008 competition and are planning to sponsor youngsters from our local schools.

Young Designer

Students are asked to submit a design project from any Key stage subdivision of GCSE or GCE A Level in Textiles, Resistant materials, Electronics, Graphic products or Jewellery.

We hope that we will have the opportunity to sponsor youngsters from our local schools.

Youth Leadership Programme

The Rotary Youth Leadership award (RYLA) is designed to develop leadership skills in young people and involves a residential outward bound type weekend at While Hall Derbyshire.

The club sponsored sponsor two Sixth Form students in the autumn 2007 and hopes to identify two Key Stage 4 students in Spring 2008

Mentoring and Interviews

Members of the Rotary Club are available to help conduct mock interviews and to assist students preparing for their careers.

Sports Aid and the Olympics

Rotary Club of Glossop is keen to work with local colleges and clubs to see if we can assist any young athletes attain their goals. The Olympic Games in London are only 6 years away.

Further information

If you would like more information on any of the above Rotary competitions, projects or other activities then please contact Rotarian Alan Conchie