Lisburn students have the gift of the gab

arc21 Regional Senior and Junior Section winners Olivia Agnew and Katie Kennedy from Friends School and Sean Landau from Pond Park Primary School. Sean went on to win the overall grand final and was crowned Primary School Environmental Youth Speaker 2014.

Sean Landau from Pond Park Primary School won the regional arc21 Junior Section whilst Katie Kennedy and Olivia Agnew from Friends School won the regional arc21 Senior Section for their joint presentation.

Sean’s prizes included two vouchers, a Kindle, a trophy and a £500 cheque for his school.

Olivia and Katie both received two vouchers, a Kindle and a trophy for their success.

Sean gave a presentation on ‘What you would do if you were the school principal?” and the joint entry by Olivia and Katie was praised for being “animated”.

Sean, Olivia and Katie were congratulated on their success by the Vice Chairman of Lisburn City Council’s Environmental Committee, Councillor Luke Poots.

“It is excellent news that our regional winners in this annual competition took away prizes from the Grand Final in Craigavon,” said Mr Poots.

“I heard the speeches first-hand when I was part of the judging panel at the recent heat in Lisburn.

“Sean in addition to winning the arc21 Junior Final beat 22 other council area entries to win the overall competition.

“This is the first overall win for the Lisburn area in this competition, which is in its sixteenth year.

“Well done Sean for your excellent, winning delivery of a thoroughly researched presentation.

“On behalf of the Council I would like to congratulate you on your success and for overcoming stiff competition from the Omagh and Moyle entrants.”

Mr Poots also praised the Friends students Olivia and Katie for their victory in the senior section of the competition.

It is also hoped that the three students may be invited to Lisburn City Council to give their presentations to the local councillors.

“I would also congratulate Olivia and Katie for their animated presentation that saw them win the arc21 Senior Final,” said Mr Poots.

“In the Senior Grand final, both girls were runners up after losing to a strong entry from Derry City Council.

“I have suggested that our three winning pupils deliver their speeches to the Elected Members at a full council meeting and council officers are exploring that idea.

“Once again congratulations Sean, Katie and Olivia.”