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COM MU N I C ATI N G FO R A B R I G HTER FUTU R E SPRING/SUMMER 2019
The big
debate
What happened when author
Frank Cottrell Boyce joined
150 Doncaster primary school
students for the day
Broadcaster Krishnan Guru-Murthy
on how the ESU Schools’ Mace
kick-started his career
The A-Z of Dartmouth House
Breaking Down Barriers
with Debate Academy
The winners of the inaugural
International Oracy Teacher Award
WILL YOU HELP WELCOME
US REACH
MORE PRIMARY
SCHOOL
CHILDREN? A message from our Chairman
Primary schools can now sign up for Discover Debating
for Upper KS2 pupils. Last year 1,770 children benefitted THANK YOU
from the programme, generating on average a 60 per
cent improvement in speaking and listening (oracy) skills.
We want more young people, especially those in
I
schools with high levels of deprivation, to experience ’d like to start this message with these two simple, With your help, we are changing this. Last year
how debating can help them thrive academically, yet much-underused, words. Thank you. As our we reached over one million young people in more
professionally and personally. centenary draws to a close, I want to thank each than 50 countries around the world, and students in
and every member of the ESU for all you do to around 500 UK schools benefitted from our oracy
OVER 90 PER CENT DISCOUNT FOR support our charitable work. For the time, expertise programmes. By 2022 we aim to have established
QUALIFYING STATE PRIMARY SCHOOLS and professionalism you give in organising, running sustainable cultures of debate in 2,000 UK schools
Primary schools can now sign up for the 2019-20 and judging our competitions such as Performing with high levels of disadvantaged students, while also
academic year. The full price for independent and
Shakespeare and the Public Speaking Competition. increasing our reach around the globe. These are
For the financial support you give us ambitious targets and we need to
state schools with low levels of pupils on Free School
through your membership fees. rely on members, both existing and
Meals (FSM) is £1,500+VAT. We have a substantial
And for the intellectual and ‘BY 2022 WE AIM TO new, to help us achieve this. Many
discount for schools with high levels of Free School emotional encouragement you HAVE ESTABLISHED of you have already made generous
Meals (FSM) – but places are limited. give us, knowing that you share SUSTAINABLE donations to support this work and
our belief in the transformative we are grateful for whatever you can
Three things you can do to help: power of oral communication
CULTURES OF DEBATE spare. We realise too however, that
and cultural understanding. IN 2,000 UK SCHOOLS you, our members and volunteers,
• Email the advert at esu.org/news-and-views/
When Sir Evelyn Wrench founded WITH HIGH LEVELS need focused and appropriate
help-us-reach-more-primary-school-children/ to
schools in your area or to teachers and headteachers
the ESU in 1918, it was primarily a OF DISADVANTAGED support from governors and staff
union of friendship among speakers and this is something we will
you already know STUDENTS’
of English in the hope that better also address, with a dedicated
mutual understanding could help to fundraising function and a
• Consider printing the promotion and asking your
local library to put it on their notice boards
‘I’ve really seen the change bring about world peace. This belief still stands revitalised membership offering. To this end, I’m
strong today. International communication and delighted to invite you all to our 4th July party (see page
in the children I’ve worked understanding remain at the heart of what we do, 7), an opportunity to celebrate all we have achieved in
• Spread the word at all your branch events
with. Children who have but so too we have noted the need for greater this century, and to share our hopes and dreams for
THANK YOU! understanding within our own increasingly diverse the next. And, most importantly, to say thank you.
benefited from oracy training and increasingly polarised communities. Likewise,
have a better structure to we have noted the disparity in provision of oracy
(listening and speaking) education in the private
express themselves and and state sectors, the unfortunate effect of which is
explain their answers.’ that those who most need to make themselves heard
are often the least able to do so. THE RT HON. THE LORD BOATENG, CHAIRMAN
LIEZEL JACOBS, TEACHER,
UK Registered Charity 273136 BROADWATER PRIMARY SCHOOL, TOOTING
2 Dialogue Magazine S pring/Summer 2019 S pring/Summer 2019 w w w.esu.org 3
CONTENTS
Events 7
Make a date in your diary for
these exciting ESU events
12
GENER AL ENQUIRIES
Fiona Robinson
A to Z of Dartmouth House 22 020 7529 1550 • esu@esu.org
From the Robert Adam fireplace
DIRECTOR-GENER AL’S OFFICE
to marvellous murals, find out
Kay Dacey, Executive Assistant
what to look for on your 020 7529 1561 • kay.dacey@esu.org
next visit to the house
CULTURAL EXCHANGE EDUCATION & INTERNATIONAL
News 31 16 Breaking down barriers
Gavin Illsley, Head of Debating Programmes
020 7529 1568 • gavin.illsley@esu.org
Including the winners of the How Debate Academy helps young Amanda Moorghen, Head of Impact & Resources
Public Speaking Competition people broaden their horizons 020 7529 1565 • amanda.moorghen@esu.org
and the Schools’ Mace 2019
ENGAGEMENT & DEVELOPMENT
18 ESUs around the world Juliette Young, Director of
ESU St Petersburg and the new Engagement & Development
020 7529 1585 • juliette.young@esu.org
International Oracy Teacher Award
Alex Bailey, Head of Membership
& Stakeholder Liaison
ESU PEOPLE & BRANCHES 020 7529 1586 • alex.bailey@esu.org
Helen Peel, Head of Philanthropy
21 Giving for good 020 7529 1580 • helen.peel@esu.org
ESU alumnus Roderick Chamberlain on
8
why he has left a gift to the ESU in his will
DARTMOUTH MEMBERSHIP ENQUIRIES
Shikha Battershill, Membership &
HOUSE 30 Spotlight on... Alumni Relations Officer
020 7529 1571 • shikha.battershill@esu.org
Barbara Crellin, Public Speaking
ORACY & DEBATE Co-ordinator for the North West VENUE HIRE ENQUIRIES
Regional Final CH&CO at Dartmouth House
Education news 8 020 7529 1554 • info@dartmouthhouse.co.uk
HOLD YOUR EVENT AT DARTMOUTH HOUSE Frank Cottrell Boyce at The Big
Debate, plus the latest from some
34 Branch news
The latest news from around
FINANCE
Tim Morris, Director of Finance
of our education programmes the ESU’s branch network 020 7529 1569 • tim.morris@esu.org
Dartmouth House, home of educational programmes, so by holding an event at Victoria Kobus, Finance Manager
charity the English-Speaking Union, is an
Alumni stories 12 42 Who’s who 020 7529 1581 • victoria.kobus@esu.org
Dartmouth House, you are helping ensure that
Channel 4 News presenter and Say hello to some of our members and staff
elegant mansion set in the heart of London’s all children, regardless of their background ESU Schools’ Mace winner,
Dialogue is published by the
English-Speaking Union, Dartmouth House,
26
Mayfair. With its stunning classical interiors, or education, have the speaking and listening Krishnan Guru-Murthy 37 Charles Street, London, W1J 5ED
www.esu.org
original features and a beautiful marble skills and cross-cultural understanding they Word up 15 Twitter: @theESU
courtyard, the house is the perfect venue need to thrive. The lowdown on the latest Facebook: The English-Speaking Union
for elegant private dinners and drinks books, talks and events to note Consultant Editor: Natasha Goodfellow
Design: zed creative www.zedcreative.co.uk
receptions, as well as conferences, The house can accommodate groups of This house believes 26 Art Director: Lee Penton
board meetings, seminars and lectures. 10 people, up to 450 for a standing reception. The UK government should Art Editors: Stuart Mabbett
declare a climate emergency Account Managers: Matthew Jenns, Maria Parker
ESU members receive discounts on hire To find out more, speak to our events Every effort is made to ensure that information
in Dialogue is accurate and correct. However,
Listening for change 28
charges and over 30 per cent of proceeds go team on 020 7529 1554 or email How one man’s ability to
the English-Speaking Union accepts no
responsibility for inaccuracies or any
to the English-Speaking Union’s education info@dartmouthhouse.co.uk listen is changing minds in consequences arising from them. Any views
expressed in editorial are not necessarily
the most unlikely places those of the English-Speaking Union.
4 Dialogue Magazine S pring/Summer 2019
@DartmouthHouse dartmouthhousemayfair S pring/Summer 2019 w w w.esu.org 5
CONTRIBUTORS ESU EVENTS
DIARY
The English-Speaking Union encourages people to listen,
think and to speak up and make their voices heard. We asked some
DATES
of our contributors which issues they would like to change
What would you speak out about? Take a look at just some of The courtyard at Dartmouth House
the exciting ESU events
coming up in the next few
DEBATE CLUB
months. You’ll find more at Monday, 15 July, from 6pm
esu.org/events. We hope to Join us in the bar for happy hour, before
Doddington Hall
see you at one of them! watching two teams of debaters in action
from 7pm.
Dartmouth House, 37 Charles Street,
KRISHNAN BOBETTE FATIMA ROGER ESU SUMMER ESU HOUSE OF LORDS London W1J 5ED
GURU-MURTHY BUSTER CONTEH TILBURY DRINKS RECEPTION AFTERNOON TEA Members: £5; non-members: £7.50.
‘If there was one thing ‘I’ve always cherished ‘I’d like to speak ‘Who will want to Thursday, 4 July, 6.30pm Friday, 12 July, 3.30-5pm To book please email events@esu.org
We would like to invite all members Afternoon tea in the Cholmondeley
I would speak out this wisdom: “Never out about poverty. stand for public office
to join us at Dartmouth House on Room and the Terrace of the House SOUTH WALES SUMMER
about and change, underestimate the five- I think in Britain we when the consequence Independence Day for a celebration of Lords (below). Enjoy a classic British GARDEN PARTY
it would be political minute conversation tend to assume that is a torrent of threats of our centenary year; to usher in the menu of sandwiches, cakes and tea Thursday, 25 July, 5.30-8pm
engagement. with a 16-year-old.” it doesn’t affect us, and abuse through next 100 years; and, most importantly, hosted by our Chairman, the Rt. Hon. the Join the South Wales branch for
I would like to say that it’s an issue for social media? Without to thank you for your vital support. Lord Boateng of Aykem & Wembley. ‘canapés, capers and camaraderie’ in
But I would carry
Dartmouth House, 37 Charles Street, Cholmondeley Room, the stunning setting of Fonmon Castle.
to people that politics it further: “Never developing countries, effective regulation it London W1J 5ED House of Lords, Parliament Square, Fonmon Castle, Fonmon, Barry,
really does matter. underestimate the but it’s all around us. will be true that we £20 to cover the cost of food and London SW1A 0PW Vale of Glamorgan CF62 3ZN
Debate matters and five-minute If we can get people get the government we drink. To book please email £65. To book please email £16. To book please email
persuading people of out of poverty, we can deserve. In fostering events@esu.org events@esu.org esuswb@googlemail.com
conversation with
what you think, anyone, when you give them a chance to the skills of oracy the
SUMMER OF SCULPTURE
listening to what they listen.” Being heard educate themselves ESU stresses listening Tuesday, 6 August, 6pm
think and meeting generates a sense of in the way they want and argument based The Lincoln branch invites all ESU
somewhere along the and to have a better on evidence, not mere members to tour the garden sculptures
astonishment, and
and stableyard galleries.
line is what democracy ultimately creates quality of life.’ opinion, sound bites or
Doddington Hall, Doddington,
is all about.’ common ground. This interpersonal Lincoln LN6 4RU
is what the world needs, point-scoring.’ £10. To book please email
Fatima is a secondary school
student and has participated kelly.bevers@carlbom.co.uk
Krishnan is a journalist, now more than ever.’
in Debate Academy three
broadcaster and presenter of
times. She tells us about
Channel 4 News. His triumph at Roger is a Devon & Exeter branch THANKSGIVING DINNER
the difference it has made member and a former ESU
the ESU Schools’ Mace in 1984
to her on page 17. Wednesday, 27 November
Bobette is an author and governor. He took part in this
was a pivotal event in his life, as
Professor of Storytelling at issue’s debate, arguing against the Save the date for our Thanksgiving
you can read on page 12.
Northeastern University in motion that ‘This house believes dinner; more details to follow.
Boston, America. You can read an that the UK government should
Dartmouth House, 37 Charles Street,
excerpt from her latest book, Do declare a climate emergency’,
Listen, on page 28. as you can read on page 26. London W1J 5ED
6 Dialogue Magazine S pring/Summer 2019 S pring/Summer 2019 w w w.esu.org 7
E D U C AT I O N N E W S
From left: Doncaster primary
school students at our Big Debate
Day; author Frank Cottrell Boyce
addresses the children; debating
workshops in action
At our recent Big Debate Day
for primary school children in
Doncaster, we caught up with our
listen
speak graciously
‘To
special guest, acclaimed children’s
author Frank Cottrell Boyce, to
hear why he feels we need to
spend more time teaching
tolerantly and to
speaking and listening
– these are world-changing skills’
I
t’s the day after the centenary Cottrell Boyce – acclaimed children’s then he goes on to tell the story of have to be taught and cherished.’ is that of the pitch – the art of The benefits, he feels, are substantial,
of Armistice Day. One hundred author, screenwriter and the man who Archduke Franz Ferdinand’s driver Frank counts himself lucky to verbally ‘selling’ your idea. But this is and go far beyond mere presentation
and fifty primary school scripted the opening ceremony for who didn’t listen to directions, took a have grown up during an age where something that Frank, like so many of skills. ‘Speaking is a fantastic tool
children from some of the most the 2012 London Olympics – speak, wrong turn and presented 19-year-old ‘there was a lot of public reading’. us, was certainly not taught at school. for thinking with,’ he says. ‘When
Words Natasha Goodfellow Photography Shaun Flannery
deprived areas of Doncaster not, as you might expect, about the Gavrilo Princip with the opportunity ‘Jackanory was on television,’ he ‘Were we encouraged to speak? No. you have to explain something to
are assembled in the brand new importance of writing, but about the to assassinate his target, thus says. ‘It was very normal for teachers The whole emphasis was on being someone, you find yourself out,’ he
National College for High Speed importance of listening. triggering World War One. to read a book to the class. That quiet and writing things down and says.‘You realise where the gaps in your
Rail just outside the city centre. ‘Bad things happen when people ‘I really believe that we put far act of sitting in a group of people I do see that now as a lack. reasoning or knowledge are.’
Through the glass is the aqua and don’t listen,’ Frank tells the room in too much emphasis on reading and and listening to something is really ‘Even at quite high levels, I see As a writer who frequently goes
yellow Donnystar, a Eurostar power his soft Liverpool accent. At first it writing in schools and nowhere near formative I think.’ people who are so unused to talking into schools to read his work, he
cab some of the children have already seems funny, as he relates the story enough on speaking and listening,’ His professional life as a writer has it becomes a trauma,’ he continues. is alarmed at the very low levels of
had the chance to explore. But this of his mother buying his daughter he says when we catch up later called on this skill a great deal. ‘Film ‘It’s time-wasting and damaging and speaking and listening he comes
is not the reason they are here. They a frozen cake rather than the Frozen on. ‘We are living in an age where in particular is very international,’ it’s a skill we’re just not teaching.’ across. ‘I see children in Reception
are here to see a debate by six Year doll he’d said she wanted. It still children’s recreational time is spent he says. ‘You’ll have meetings with and Year 1 who can barely talk; who
6 Discover Debating students from
Arbourthorne Community Primary
seems fairly amusing when he goes
on to describe the time he mistakenly
listening only to people they agree
with and shouting at those they
French people or American people
and you have to listen hard and think
‘Speaking is a barely know their own names,’ he
says. ‘It’s not just in schools that
School in Sheffield, and to learn boarded a flight to Los Angeles don’t. To listen tolerantly and to what are they really saying?’ fantastic tool for speaking is undervalued, it’s in
some of these skills for themselves. instead of Paris, thereby missing speak graciously – these are world- Of course, the other key skill in a homes. I think we’re in the midst
And they are here to hear Frank his daughter’s school assembly. But changing skills. These are skills that writer’s armoury, aside from writing, thinking with’ of a national oracy crisis.’
8 Dialogue Magazine S pring/Summer 2019 S pring/Summer 2019 w w w.esu.org 9
E D U C AT I O N N E W S From top: A workshop in full swing;
Education
Mehdi, one of the speakers from
Arbourthorne Community Primary
School in Sheffield
KEEP UP TO DATE WITH THE
NEWS
LATEST ESU AWARDS,
PROGR AMMES, EDUCATIONAL
EVENTS AND UPDATES FROM
OUR EDUCATION TEAM…
A growing culture
The ESU’s Oracy Culture Award celebrates schools creating a sustainable
culture of oracy across their curricula and in the wider community. We are
delighted to announce this year’s winners are King Edward VI School, Morpeth
(secondary) and Llanedeyrn Primary School (primary) which is working to
ensure oracy underpins all learning in the school. Arbourthorne Community
His fear is that by not teaching ultimately, is how we learn. ‘I always Primary School in Sheffield; Ansford Academy, Somerset, and St. Peter’s,
children how to speak, we are ceding like to encourage contributions when York, were all also highly commended by the judges. ‘We’re thrilled to get the
the stage to those who are already I’m reading,’ says Frank. ‘But often the award,’ says Bev Knuckey, Deputy Head of Llandedeyrn (pictured, right). ‘It’s an
comfortable with the sound of their teacher will shush them. The cradle acknowledgement of the value of the work we’ve been doing, and will help us
own voices. ‘That’s dangerous isn’t of civilisation after all is the agora, the to share our practice with other schools.’
it?’ he says, ‘because it means that forum, it’s a place for people to talk
the floor is dominated by attention- and discuss different ideas.
seeking extroverts. We need to tool ‘The truth is you can’t understand
up the people who don’t have a anything unless you know something
psychotic craving for attention to about its opposite, and that’s what’s ABOUT THE DAY On a high!
speak up and make their points.’ great about debate,’ he continues. ‘No Held in Doncaster, a In April we recorded our highest number of student beneficiaries
Even more frighteningly perhaps, matter how good you are at talking, government-designated of our Discover Your Voice workshops in recent history – well over
by not encouraging children to listen you’ll never persuade anyone unless Opportunity Area, The 900! The full- or half- day workshops are bespoke, often acting as an
and to ask questions we are failing you understand where they’re coming Big Debate Day is just one introduction to debating or public speaking, or allowing students to
to engage their curiosity which, from, unless you listen to them.’ example of how we work sharpen up their skills ahead of competitions. Our thanks go to the
to reach children in the branches who sponsor schools enabling them to take part, for example
most disadvantaged areas. Lincoln & Lincolnshire, which recently sponsored De Aston School, and
WHAT THE STUDENTS SAID... WHAT THE TEACHERS SAID... Over 150 students from six Epping & Essex, which sponsored The James Hornsby School.
schools attended, all with at
‘Debating has boosted my ‘I have been really impressed least 30 per cent of students
confidence of speaking in front by the workshops today. A few on Free School Meals and
of an audience. I used to be children who are normally one with 54 per cent of Oracy in the news
really shy and it’s helped me quiet in class have all joined students speaking English Oracy has been making headlines as language,’ he said. Damian Hinds,
come out of my shell.’ in and participated well.’ as an additional language recently, with two government ministers Education Secretary is also keen to
Maddison Woollen, Neil Harris, Assistant Head (EAL). Contributions from calling separately for more attention to encourage more children to get involved
Arbourthorne Community Primary school of Castle Hills Primary School membership fees and be paid to speaking and listening skills, with public speaking and debating,
donations – as well as both in and out of school. Speaking at alongside other skills including sport,
‘I liked discussing whaling. It ‘I hope the kids today leave support from our partner a conference organised by Parents & arts and crafts and volunteering, which he
made me think why would people with a better understanding The Week Junior – made Teachers for Excellence, Nick Gibb, believes are vital in helping young people
do that? Out of all the fish in the that they don’t have to shout the day possible and, as a Minister of State at the Department for develop into fully-rounded adults. He said
ocean to eat you choose a whale? or fight to be heard – they’ll result, we are delighted that Education, called for more debate about that these skills combined ‘will stretch
I think it’s not acceptable.’ all be heard.’ three of the schools have how oracy can be used to support the and challenge and will help young people
Calvin Holt, Mick O’Hara, Social, Emotional and Mental
signed up for our Discover delivery of a knowledge-rich curriculum. think, develop and grow and … enhance
Hatfield Crookesbroom Primary Academy Health Manager at Park Primary School Debating programme. ‘Oracy helps sharpen thought as well their self-esteem and their confidence’.
10 Dialogue Magazine S pring/Summer 2019 S pring/Summer 2019 w w w.esu.org 11
ALUMNI STORIES
‘If I hadn’t done the
Schools’ Mace competition,
I wouldn’t be presenting
Channel 4 News now’
KRISHNAN GURU-MURTHY, JOURNALIST & BROADCASTER
C
hannel 4 News presenter Krishnan eminent judges such as Lord Hailsham.
Guru-Murthy considers himself to It raised our sense of what was possible in
have the best job in the world. ‘I’ve our lives. And if you do well in a competition
spent 30 years going to the most it makes you realise that anything is possible.’
amazing places, meeting my idols: musicians, By the time Krishnan was 15 he had not
actors, directors, activists, politicians,’ he says, only won the ESU Schools’ Mace debating
his glee obvious. ‘And it wouldn’t have competition, he had achieved the ultimate in
happened without debating. There’s no point terms of cachet, among his fellow students at
pretending that debating is cool, but it leads least – he had been on television. ‘I think the
you to places that are incredibly cool.’ kids who’d thought debating wasn’t for them
Krishnan’s journey started back at school were probably kicking themselves,’ he laughs.
when he harboured dreams of becoming a ‘Doing the Schools’ Mace competition lead to
politician. ‘Debating society was just the my whole career.’
first step,’ he says. Though he admits it was That TV appearance – grilling politicians
perceived as ‘a little bit square’ he found he as an audience member for BBC2’s Open to
enjoyed not only the topics discussed but Question – soon led to him being taken on as
THE ESU
SCHOOLS’ MACE
the sense of competition and the cachet presenter, aged just 18. He worked full-time
that came with it. for a year before university and enjoyed it so
Photography Charlie Hopkinson
The ESU Schools’
Mace is the oldest ‘Quite often, it’s only the football or rugby much he changed his degree from medicine
Words Natasha Goodfellow
and largest teams who get to go out and meet kids from to politics, much to his parents’ consternation,
annual debating other schools,’ he says. ‘But debating is and then kept working part-time, presenting
competition for another form of competition, and it really Asian current affairs programmes East and
secondary school
broadened my horizons. We debated in some Network East. ‘After two years my tutors said,
students in
England. For more
very grand settings, against kids from much “Enough – you’ve got to stop or you’re going
details, see esu. posher schools than ours, and in front of to fail your degree”. And so, I resigned from
org/schools-mace
S pring/Summer 2019 w w w.esu.org 13
ALUMNI STORIES EVENTS AND BOOKS
WORD UP
The lowdown on the latest books,
talks, podcasts and events to note
in the coming months…
BOOKS
You are If Only they
Not Human didn’t Speak
Simon Lancaster, English
Biteback Publishing, Jon Sopel, BBC Books,
£12.99 £9.99
‘I think teaching children As a speechwriter, Simon Lancaster The ESU was set up to
everything I was doing. But (Dialogue, Autumn 2017) is well aware promote good communication –
then, a couple of weeks before
to stand up and say what of the power of metaphors, dubbing and better understanding – between
the beginning of my third year, they believe in life is them ‘the nuclear bombs’ of all the English-Speaking peoples of the
the BBC asked me to take over vital to democracy’ communication. Though our world. This book, by the BBC’s North
the children’s news programme conversation is ‘littered’ with them (we America Editor Jon Sopel, illustrates
Newsround. They said I could use metaphors six times every minute) that, if we are to collaborate, this is still EVENTS
just work during my holidays, they pass so unnoticed that few of us as necessary as ever, despite our Ian McKellen on Stage
and then come full-time when too pompous, if people don’t learn to do are aware of their influencing effects. shared language. Looking at issues as To celebrate his 80th birthday Sir Ian
I’d finished university. And so that’s what I did.’ this, we could find all the things we take This fascinating read makes these complex as US gun laws, patriotism McKellen – as well known for his many
Stints on Newsnight and BBC News 24 for granted – all our freedoms – eroded and abundantly clear; exploring what and Trump’s victory in the first ‘no- Shakespearean roles as his portrayal of
followed, before Krishnan joined Channel 4 it will be too late to do anything about it.’ happens when words begin to control truth’ election, he paints an insightful Gandalf in The Lord of the Rings films
News in 1998. ‘Debating is about learning ‘My advice to any young person who thinks our thoughts and actions. picture of why America – is undertaking an 80-date tour of the
to look at facts, to construct an argument debating is a bit square, or that the debate today is the way it is. UK. The show includes anecdotes and
and argue it, and that has been really good society is talking about stuff that isn’t relevant How to Own performances, and proceeds from each
practice for what I do now,’ he says. ‘When to you, is to join in and change the motions. the Room When they go show go towards the host theatre.
I’m interviewing, I have to attack from a Suggest what is relevant and debate that and Viv Groksop, Bantam Low, We go High Until 15 September;
position and then maybe swap positions get people to do what you want. That is what Books, £12.99 Philip Collins, ianonstage.co.uk
because I want to keep my interviewee debating is about – persuasion.’ Acknowledging that 4th Estate, £9.99
guessing. I must always think myself into the This matter brings another note of concern almost all the books about public ‘Words need to inspire because An audience with Simon Reeve
other side. Debating was the perfect training to Krishnan’s voice however. As someone speaking have been written by men, disenchantment with politics fosters If there’s anyone who knows about
ground and I’ve no doubt that if I hadn’t done who has covered politics for decades now, about men and for men; journalist the illusion that there is an alternative.’ cultural understanding it’s travel
the Schools’ Mace Competition, I wouldn’t he is worried about the level of political and stand-up comedian Viv Groksop’s So writes Philip Collins, former chief reporter Simon Reeve. His acclaimed
SUPPORT OUR WORK
be presenting Channel 4 News now.’ engagement in this country. ‘A lot of people new title is aimed squarely at women. speechwriter to Prime Minister Tony TV series (20 so far) have taken him to
Your donations help us
Krishnan also credits debate with boosting think that politics isn’t for them, and they are Analysing speeches by women Blair, in this book, a passionate more than 120 countries and spanned
ensure many more young
his confidence and his sense that his thoughts taking entrenched positions and aren’t really people have the speaking
including Michelle Obama, J.K. defence of the power of public adventures from hunting with the
mattered just as much as anybody else’s, open to being persuaded any more,’ he says. and listening skills and
Rowling and Oprah Winfrey, she speaking. Through analysis of 25 of Bushmen of the Kalahari to being
something he worries is now not common ‘The facts don’t seem to matter as much as the cross-cultural both helps readers to identify their the greatest speeches ever given he detained for spying by the KGB, as
enough. ‘I think teaching children to stand they used to. To change your mind when you understanding they need strengths and build on them, and considers how speeches can shape this, his first-ever theatre tour, reveals.
up and say what they believe in life is vital listen to powerful arguments is a good thing, to thrive. Please visit esu. encourages them to get out there our world, from defining nations to Dates from October;
to democracy and, without wishing to sound and needs to be encouraged.’ org/support-our-work and make themselves heard. ensuring the people are heard. ticketmaster.co.uk
14 Dialogue Magazine S pring/Summer 2019 S pring/Summer 2019 w w w.esu.org 15
C U LT U R A L E X C H A N G E C U LT U R A L E X C H A N G E
BREAK IN
G
MUNA: ‘We hoped the children would gain three ‘I’ve enjoyed getting ‘Young people need to
people to know who be given the opportunity
DOWN
things: one, a better mastery of the English
language; two, broader general knowledge; and we are as Palestinians’ to discuss world affairs’
three, an expanded capacity for critical thinking. Helena Wolthas, 15, from Bethlehem, Fatima Conteh, 17, from Newcastle.
Of course, an opportunity like this is not cheap, Palestine. Attending Debate Attending Debate Academy for the
BARRIERS
and our costs are higher than they might be Academy for the first time third time
because of our political situation. From ‘I think the things I’ve enjoyed most about the week are ‘Debate Academy is just amazing, both socially, and
Bethlehem, we cannot hop on a plane and fly to first, meeting so many people and second, getting them because of the skills you learn here. It’s definitely helped
London. With a very few exceptions, Palestinians to know who we are as Palestinians. You don’t find me build my resilience, perseverance and self-discipline.
are not allowed to travel via the airport in Tel Palestinians everywhere and sometimes people think It’s also given me the ability to be confident with the way I
Aviv, so we must travel by bus for five or six hours that we’re something we’re not. They stereotype us compose myself, the way I speak and interact with people,
Each year Debate Academy helps broaden to Jordan, and fly from there, where the cost when we’re all humans, me just like you. I also think it’s and in the way I look at and develop arguments and
the horizons of dozens of young people of the plane ticket is double. But thanks to the important for girls to learn how to debate as, in many understand what is going on. I feel like that is crucial in
from across the UK and the world. We hear English-Speaking Union and the philosophy of communities, women’s voices aren’t heard. I’ve learnt order to become the best version of myself. Coming here
philanthropy of the British people, the students how to approach problems and to express my opinion in has allowed me to be confident enough to stand for
from some of them – and their teachers –
received scholarships enabling them to come and a calm way. We can talk here in class, and then in future Newcastle Youth Council, and to start my own politics
about the difference it makes for this, we can never ever be thankful enough.’ we can use these skills at university and in society.’ society at school. Young people need to be given the
DAISY: ‘The children have changed drastically opportunity to discuss world affairs. We’re the decision
Daisy Giacaman (below left) and Muna Kattan over the five days. When we landed, they were makers of tomorrow.’
(right) are debating teachers at the College des screaming, now they have seen how quiet and MUNA: ‘Back home, we live in a very, very
Frères, Bethlehem, Palestine. They accompanied polite people are here, they whisper. When we traditional society where the parents,
12 of their students to Debate Academy arrived here, the 12 of them moved around grandparents, uncles are all around you 24 hours ‘I’ve learnt how to better engage
DAISY: ‘We’re always looking for opportunities as a pack, but now they have gained so much a day. Being here has allowed the children to
for our students to get quality education confidence they have integrated completely, take a big step towards independence, towards
with the audience and how to
through debating, so when we heard about it’s been amazing to see. They have flowered.’ responsibility. The way that they are taught here deliver messages more effectively’
Debate Academy and the chance it presented to has created a shift, too. At home, our curriculum Ahmad Nawaz, 17, from Birmingham. Attending
Debate Academy for the second time
bring them to the UK, the home of debate, and is based on knowing things by heart, whereas
to learn a new culture, we were really excited.’ here it’s all about critical thinking, so their ‘In 2014, the Taliban attacked my school in
personalities come to shine. They’ve discussed Peshawar, Pakistan. I lost my brother and
subjects that are completely taboo in our 132 friends. I was shot in the arm and flown
schools, and realised that there are two points to the UK for surgery. While I was in
of view, at least, for any given subject. This will hospital, I started wondering why would
help them not only on a personal level. They are anyone attack a school? I realised the
going back to a country that is in need of such terrorists were trying to stop us from
people, people who will, eventually, sign a peace educating ourselves so that we would take on their ideologies. I
Interviews by Natasha Goodfellow
agreement. We come from a culture that is decided then to work towards ensuring that people in deprived areas
rooted in heavy politics, we don’t really have get their education. I also want to encourage young people to speak
the chance to explore other ways of expressing out about what we think is wrong in society, so we can change it.
ourselves. The debate academies throughout ‘I now do a lot of public speaking and Debate Academy has
the world give students that chance.’ helped me to engage with the audience, to deliver messages more
DAISY: ‘If we want to achieve a peaceful reality then effectively and it’s given me a lot more self-confidence. The people
we need to equip the younger generation with here at Debate Academy all have the ability to express themselves.
these skills, to teach them, through debate and I want them to realise that young people have a platform in the UK
conversation, to listen to each other and to which is not the case in every other country. I want them to realise
imagine themselves in each other’s shoes.’ that if they use this platform and speak out, they will be heard.’
16 Dialogue Magazine S pring/Summer 2019 S pring/Summer 2019 w w w.esu.org 17
C U LT U R A L E X C H A N G E ESU C U LT U R A L E X C H A N G E
ST PETERSBURG
FACTFILE
FOUNDED
ESU
1998
FOUNDER & CHAIR
Margarita Mudrak
PRESIDENT Mushrooms are considered Smiling has different
Liudmila Verbitskaya, a delicacy and consumed in cultural connotations in
President and
ST PETERSBURG
any number of ways: with Russia than in the West.
Professor, potatoes; pickled; or salted Russians tend only to smile at
St Petersburg with onions and sour cream. those they know, or to whom
As ESU St Petersburg prepares State University Many Russians also go they have truly positive
to host the International Council MEMBERS mushroom-hunting − in feelings. It is considered
Meeting later this year, we c. 300 summer Moscow newsstands odd to smile at strangers,
catch up with its founder and sell the necessary maps for example.
chair, Margarita Mudrak for novices.
F
or as long as she can remember, ‘It’s our aim for the ESU to
Margarita Mudrak has been play a leading role in people’s
involved with English. When diplomacy and intercultural
St Basil’s Cathedral came A riot of marble, mosaic,
she was a six-year-old child in communications,’ says
close to demolition in the stained glass and murals,
Vladivostok, her mother decided Margarita. ‘Our events From top: Participants of the Shakespeare 1930s, when it was removed Moscow’s underground
Margarita and her sister should learn provide possibilities to interact Drama Festival 2018; judges and participants of from the heritage register. system is considered by many
the language. A private tutor was and break down barriers and the St.Petersburg final of the Public Speaking
Architect and conservationist
Competition at the Legislative Assembly 2017
to be the world’s most
duly found – no small feat in 1954 prejudices,’ she says. Pyotr Baranovsky beautiful. Over 40 of the
– and Margarita’s education began. These events comprise international 10 universities participated. Winners remonstrated, and was sent to stations are listed as cultural
Six years later, by then living in cultural exchanges, professional and from the school competitions are the Gulag for his objections. heritage sites.
Leningrad (as it was then known), business partnerships, conferences given master classes by the ESU to
Margarita continued her English and teacher training courses for help polish their speeches before the
studies at the International Friendship English language teachers in the city, final at the Legislative Assembly. The
Club and remembers the British alongside educational and cultural winner then represents Russia at the
schoolchildren who would visit the programmes to help young people International Public Speaking Fascinating facts about the country Russia is the largest country
city on former military naval ships, improve their English. Competition in London. ‘Participation Beer was not considered
alcoholic until 2012. In a
hosting our International in the world, occupying 10
where she and her friends were invited Such programmes run the gamut in this programme helps our young per cent of all land on Earth.
on board. Many years on, now a from charitable English language people to understand that they can country where vodka (‘little Council Meeting this September
It borders three oceans (the
qualified English teacher and member classes at a city orphanage to the play a meaningful role in their own water’) is the national drink,
Arctic, Atlantic and the Pacific)
of the Association for International annual Shakespeare Drama Festival, country and in the global community,’ ale and other drinks with an
and spans 11 time zones.
alcohol content of under
Cooperation, she was part of the in which 15-20 schools take part, and says Margarita. ‘Even if they don’t
10 per cent were previously
founding team of the English-Speaking the Public Speaking Competition, now win, participation in the competition
considered foodstuffs.
Union in the city, which also included in its 21st year. Last year, about 500 is a memorable and beneficial Russians love a cuppa as Ice-swimming is a popular
the St. Petersburg State University, the students from around 25 schools and experience for them.’ much as the English do. sport, particularly on the
Russian State Pedagogical University Imports from its neighbour, night of 19 January, when Russia is home to the
and The State Electrotechnical BOOK NOW TO VISIT ST PETERSBURG WITH THE ESU! China, began via camel Russian Orthodox Christians majority of the world’s
University. Other key supporters All ESU members are invited to the English-Speaking Union International Council caravan in the 17th century. celebrate the festival of Siberian tigers. Only about
included the then ESU Director- Meeting (ICM), 25-29 September 2019 in St Petersburg, Russia. The trip will include Although 75 per cent This has given rise to a blend Epiphany. Cross-shaped holes 500 remain in total, 95
General Valerie Mitchell; Michael visits to the Hermitage, the Mariinsky Theatre, and other cultural destinations. of Russian territory is known as ‘Russian Caravan’ are cut into the ice and the per cent of them in Russia’s
Bird, the British Council Director in The cost is £495 and includes transfers, meals and excursions (but not flights). The located in Asia, only 22 inspired by the smoky flavour swimmers plunge in, clad only Far East, particularly
Saint-Petersburg; Baroness Elizabeth final deadline for registration is 30 June. For more information please contact Kay per cent of the population imparted to the leaves by the in swimming costumes (and within the Sikhote-Alin
Smith; and Lord George Robertson. Dacey, Executive Assistant, kay.dacey@esu.org or telephone +44 207 529 1561. live in these parts. traders’ campfires en route. the occasional bobble hat). Biosphere Reserve.
18 Dialogue Magazine S pring/Summer 2019 S pring/Summer 2019 w w w.esu.org 19I N T E R N AT I O N A L E V E LY N W R E N C H S O C I E T Y
Excellence in Oracy with native English speakers, unless there
are American Peace Corps volunteers.
Students know the functional language, GIVING FOR GOOD
Our new International Oracy Teacher Award recognises but it is difficult for them to express ESU alumnus and Honorary Treasurer Roderick Chamberlain tells us
excellence and outreach in oracy teaching around the world. their opinions with confidence.
why he has left a gift to the ESU in his will, and why he hopes you will too
Our first winner and runner-up tell us what it means to them
What approaches do you use
L
to teach oracy?
How do you hope it helps your students? My students’ favourite exercises ots of people say ‘the ESU changed be opportunities to express our gratitude, HOW LEGACIES
I think it makes other experiences less are balloon debates and fish bowl my life’; my line is that it made my to update Evelyn Wrench Society members LIVE ON
scary. Once you’ve given a five-minute discussions and I like to incorporate life. In 1963, aged just 17, I won on the difference their gift will make, and 2003
speech after only 15 minutes’ prep, role plays and theatre and stage a BASS (now SSE) scholarship for all to stay in touch with old friends. Joyce Rolfe
other things become less daunting. I performances such as Romeo and to Harvard School in North Hollywood, The amount left to us is less important than legacy – now
think it helps young women in Juliet. I also run a public speaking California. I was gauche, pimply, clever and the act of giving, not only because what you funding Discover
particular, who may otherwise become and debating after-school club to unathletic, but they took me as I was and, leave is more valuable than you might think Debating and
quieter as school progresses. help students practice their skills. in so many ways, life, as opposed to learning, when added to the gifts of others; but because other educational
started there. your support strengthens the answer to the programmes
What difference has the award made? How do you hope it helps your students? I love thinking up new ideas for fundraising standard question put by grant-making trusts 1970
It seems as if all of my pupils saw the These activities help students to gain and, as the ESU’s centenary approached, two and other outside funders: ‘What do your Charles Lionel
news story online and, since most of oracy and other skills necessary for things struck me. First, we needed something members and alumni do to help?’ Lindemann
them asked me what ‘oracy’ meant, today’s fast-developing world. which would bind together the whole ESU I feel I owe it to the ESU to do this. We are legacy – funding
the main difference it made is that family, keep people involved and provide all members, beneficiaries and supporters of the Lindemann
it provided lots of good learning What difference has the award made? a different and perhaps easier ask for the a brilliant institution that did great work in scientific
Robbie McDonald, history and Fellowships
opportunities about the value of oracy! The award was well recognised in my fundraising question in order to help us risk- its first century and is evolving to do equally
debate teacher – Broxburn Academy,
country and the British Ambassador proof the ESU’s future. Second, I realised that, great work in its second. I believe that leaving 1948
West Lothian Maia Tkemaladze, English teacher
in Georgia, Mr. McKenzie Smith, 100 years on, we have instituted nothing that a legacy is a relatively straightforward way of Westbury Preston
– Sachkhere Public School, Georgia
Tell us about the challenges facing called me a ‘true Georgian hero’ on bears the name of our founder Evelyn Wrench. recognising your fondness for, your affinity legacy – now
the students at your school. Tell us about the challenges facing Twitter. Along with other recognition, So why not put the two together and set up a with, your belief in and maybe even your funding financial
I find that many young people simply the students at your school. this has given me encouragement and society, dedicated to the name we all revere, duty to the ESU, and I would ask all members support for SSE
lack the confidence to develop their Children in villages and small towns are a greater sense of responsibility to do to honour legators to his cause? and alumni to join me. students
oracy skills. Talking to a group can be isolated and have no communication more for my students. My vision is that, over time, it
a scary experience and the pressure will become a routine expectation
of feeling judged can be extremely that every member and every Join the Evelyn Wrench Society
off-putting. alumnus/na should remember us Members who kindly choose to leave a gift
in their wills to whatever extent in their wills to the ESU will become part
APPLY NOW! of the Evelyn Wrench Society and will be
What approaches do you use
If you are a teacher (outside
and in whatever way they can.
invited to annual events so we can show our
to teach oracy and why? England and Wales) or know of Their legacies will continually
gratitude. To let us know your intentions,
I teach oracy in three main ways: anyone who might like to apply build up an endowment fund
please contact giftsinwills@esu.org
in the classroom, at a club, and at for the International Oracy whose income will support our or call 020 7529 1580.
competitive training, and I try to offer Teacher Award 2019, please visit educational programmes –
as many opportunities as possible esu.org/awards/international- remember the ESU has no history
in the hope that the more they do, oracy-teacher-award/ or tradition of general fundraising for this.
the more their confidence will grow. Donors who are content to be named can
I’ve found focusing on topics relevant be thanked in appropriate publications; all will
to the young people in front of me be invited to the annual lunch or tea parties we
tends to be the most successful. intend to hold once funds permit. These will
20 Dialogue Magazine S pring/Summer 2019 S pring/Summer 2019 w w w.esu.org 21MEMBER BENEFITS
AZ
The Bar Dungeons & dragons
This room, clad in French mid- There are no dungeons at
eighteenth-century panelling was Dartmouth House, but there are
once the morning room. It has since dragons of sorts – at the base of
TO been a library, a cards room and the the rococo balustrade of the grand
ESU’s travel bureau. staircase, which took a father-and-
son-team two years to make.
OF Robert Adam fireplace
The jewel in the crown of Dartmouth House,
Call the maid!
The staff of Dartmouth House in 1900
DARTMOUTH
the fine, classically inspired Robert Adam numbered at least 48 people, including
fireplace in the Long Drawing Room began four chefs, ten maids and three hall boys.
life at Derby House, Grosvenor Square. You can still spot one of the original
HOUSE
The original watercolours can be seen at bells used to summon staff in the Long
Sir John Soane’s Museum. Drawing Room.
Home to a Robert Adam fireplace and once a shelter
from Zeppelin air raids, Dartmouth House holds plenty
Evelyn Wrench Edward Reginald
of surprises. Here are some alphabetical points memorial Frampton
of interest to illuminate your next visit ‘What others have Frampton (1870-1923) was
dreamed, he has done’. influenced by the Pre- Guiding lights
Words Natasha Goodfellow
Pictures Roger Harris and Andrea Liu So reads the memorial Raphaelites, as can be Above the fireplace in the rear
to Sir Evelyn Wrench, seen in his charming Love entrance hall hangs the plaque bearing
W
who founded the and the West Wind in the the names of all our presidents and
hat is now known as Revelstoke’s bankruptcy) drew English-Speaking Union Long Drawing Room. It chairmen, including Lord Balfour
Dartmouth House is the works to a sharp halt. in 1918. Find it on the was last on public display (President, 1918-1930) and Winston
actually two houses: The next owner, conservative wall in the courtyard. at the RA in 1921. Churchill (Chairman, 1921-1925).
nos. 37 and 38 Charles Street. politician Lord Dartmouth, made
Both were built in around 1755, further embellishments, creating
when Berkeley Square was the Long and Small Drawing
the haunt of thieves and the Rooms on the first floor and
Tybourne brook was described inscribing his name on the porch. Imposing entrance Just a little bit wrong
as ‘a common sewer’. The English-Speaking Union Hospital stay When 37 & 38 Charles Next time you visit, take a
The two buildings were bought Dartmouth House in After the outbreak of war in Street were combined to closer look at the panelling
combined between 1890 and 1926, and Clough Williams Ellis 1914, Lord Dartmouth and his form Baron Revelstoke’s in the front hall. A copy of
1891 by banker Edward Baring, (of Portmeirion fame), was brought family moved to the country magnificent home, they the original wood panelling
Baron Revelstoke, who wanted a in to transform what was by then and the house was used as a needed an entrance to match. to the rear, unfortunately
home equal to his vast collection a somewhat outmoded house into military hospital. Wall coverings The central Doric porch a damaged section was
of French antique furniture and the organisation’s headquarters and fireplaces were sealed up (with its polished granite chosen from which to make
art. The Barings Bank crisis of and a ‘home from home’ for its and the Small Drawing Room columns reputedly from St the master, so each panel is
the 1890s (which led to Lord growing membership. was known as St George’s Ward. Petersburg) was the answer. missing a moulding.
22 Dialogue Magazine S pring/Summer 2019 S pring/Summer 2019 w w w.esu.org 23© Andrea Liu
MEMBER BENEFITS MEMBER BENEFITS
Knobs & knockers Lights, camera, action! Marble & murals Nocturnal animals Out the back
These fine lion’s heads The historic surroundings Dartmouth House’s marble Look up at the staircase The elegant mews house
can be found on the have appeared in many courtyard is a draw, but there ceiling to spot a flutter created by Baron Revelstoke
doors of the Churchill hit TV programmes and is lots more marble about the of bats; while in the was once the stables and
Room. This room, and films including The Crown, place, too, not least in the Wedgwood room coach house. In World War Precious stones
the drawing rooms Sherlock, Mr Selfridge and elaborate full-height staircase you’ll find three owls II it became the workrooms, No rubies or emeralds, sadly,
adjacent, host the heats House of Cards, with over hall. The painted ceiling is by carved into the mace – from which US donations of but the fine Italian fireplace in
and finals for some of 30 per cent of proceeds Pierre Victor Galland (1822-1892) decorative staffs given clothes, blankets and medical the Revelstoke room is inlaid
our speech and debate going towards funding our who was also responsible for the to the winners of our goods were distributed. with lapis lazuli, the source of
competitions. educational programmes. panels in the Wedgwood Room. debating competitions. Today it houses our offices. ultramarine pigment.
The Queen Revelstoke Room Tea with the troops US connections
A portrait of HM Today a drawing room for members, By 1942 the house had Not only did ESU US
the Queen and this features portraits of Evelyn Wrench Stucco become a ‘home from members contribute much
Prince Philip hangs and his friend and colleague, American Turn your eyes skywards home’ to visiting service to the war relief effort, they
in the staircase hall diplomat Walter Hines Page, after whom and you’ll find plenty of personnel, providing one donated money for the
because both are one of our scholarships is named. elaborate stuccowork, of the busiest information original fit-out of the house.
former presidents of particularly in the Long bureaux in London. VIP At its opening, it had 38
the ESU. HRH the and Small Drawing Rooms visitors included Eleanor bedrooms for members, 26
Princess Royal is our and in the Churchill Roosevelt who took tea with their own bathroom and
Did you know? current president. Room, seen here. with American troops here. all with their own telephone.
As a member of the
English-Speaking Union,
you are welcome to visit
Dartmouth House, to
lunch with us, to meet
Very fine design THE HOUSE
You!
friends or simply to relax
Dartmouth House was described in IS OPEN!
The Illustrated London News in 1970 Our members who come here – to work,
in our beautiful rooms On Sunday, 22
as ‘by far the grandest building in X marks the spot meet friends, dine or to attend events
or courtyard. Members September Dartmouth
Charles Street’. It is Grade II*-listed It would be disappointing if a house of this age – are what gives Dartmouth House its
also receive discounts House will open its doors
and is included in Simon Jenkins’ didn’t have some secret passageways. Can you special atmosphere. Thanks to you we are
on hire charges for to the public to explore
England’s Thousand Best Houses. spot the concealed hinges in the rear hallway? able to continue and expand our work,
its interiors as part of
function bookings, and ensuring more young people have the
Open House London.
over 30 per cent of speaking and listening skills and cross-
This follows last year’s
proceeds go towards cultural understanding they need to thrive.
successful opening during
funding our educational
Wedding Bells Zeppelin raids which over 400 people
programmes. The house visited. Why not tell your
The ESU’s hospitality programme The house escaped the raids
is open to members from friends, or bring them
during World War II led to many of World War One, but it is
9am to 6.30pm Monday marriages. Today, the house is reported that, during the attacks along for a free tour? Visit
to Friday. For more a popular location for weddings (while the house was a Red Cross esu.org/open-house-
details, please call – indeed, last year it was twice hospital), officers’ beds were london for more details or
020 7529 1550. awarded ‘best wedding venue’. Members moved to the space under the to book your tour.
receive a discount on hire charges. stairs for protection.
24 Dialogue Magazine S pring/Summer 2019 S pring/Summer 2019 w w w.esu.org 25You can also read
