On Wednesday 9^th November, two teams from Barrhead High School competed in the Rotary Youth Speaks competition at St. Ninian’s High School – an annual event that sees pupils from across East Renfrewshire putting their public speaking skills to the test.  Our first team in the senior category impressed the judging panel by exploring whether age really does equal wisdom.  Taking a close look at ‘being female in today’s society’, was our second senior team’s topic.  Although both teams performed exceptionally well, we were sadly pipped to the post by Mearns Castle High School who convinced the audience that physically disciplining children should be stopped.  The judges commented that it was an incredibly close race and praised both Barrhead High School teams for their thoughtful, powerful speeches, and confident delivery.  Ken Macintosh, Presiding Officer of the Scottish Parliament, was also in attendance, and praised all speakers for their dedication and enthusiasm, commenting that it had given him great hope in the future of politics.  A huge congratulations to both senior teams – the night was a great success and a real credit to the pupils’ diligent efforts!