write a speech as a school prefect example

• Essay Samples
• College Essay
• Writing Tools
• Writing guide

↑ Return to College Essay

Persuasive Speech: I Should Be the Next School Prefect

I should be your next school prefect because I have all the best things to offer the position and the establishment. To start with, I have an engaging and positive attitude that makes it easy to relate to students and staff. Not only that, but I am cheerful and love to take on new challenges. I have plenty of experience working with others in a leadership role so I am prepared to take on this duty with all the necessary achievements and requirements under my belt.

One of my main jobs will be working with the students and staff at the school to help them deal with both positive and negative issues that arise on campus. I will help each one of them give voice to their needs and wants so that we can work together to create the perfect school environment for everyone. I will meet with the headmaster on a regular basis to problem solve and come up with solutions to issues that students might be having at school. Each and every student should know that I am on their side and promise to make school as great as it can be for them.

When it comes to my qualifications, I believe I have what it takes to make a great leader. I have a confidence that makes it simple for me to speak before a crowd in a proficient and knowledgeable way. I enjoy answering questions about myself and am always willing to discuss issues and assist in finding a solution. I am easy to talk to and promise to take each issue seriously so that students feel heard and understood, no matter what they might be facing. I am good at communicating what needs to be done as well as my appreciation for the help that others give me. I’m not afraid to ask for help when I need it and would rather admit it than try to solve a problem alone, only to find out that I’m not equipped to do so without assistance. I am also able to plan large events, such as holiday parties and enjoy working as part of a team. I am able to share ideas and tasks with my group and am able to give up some control for the good of everyone involved. You will always find me open and willing to talk, both about the good and the bad.

As a prefect, I want to help the school be the best it can be by partnering with students, staff and parents to ensure that each problem is solved and make the school a fun and educational environment for each and every student that attends. I want to take on the role of prefect so that I can continue in this tradition and use my talents and time to create the perfect school for anyone. Each student will feel happy and at home at school and parents will be assured that their child will be safe on campus and will get a superior education while they are here.

In summary, I love what being a prefect means for me and my fellow students. I want this experience to further enhance my life and my experience, but I also want to share what I have to offer with other students. This school has provided me with so many opportunities and chances to learn and I feel like it’s my duty to give back by becoming a prefect and giving something back to the school and the students and staff that are here on a daily basis. Thank you!

Follow Us on Social Media

Get more free essays

Send via email

Most useful resources for students:.

• Free Essays Download
• Writing Tools List
• Proofreading Services
• Universities Rating

Contributors Bio

Find more useful services for students

Free plagiarism check, professional editing, online tutoring, free grammar check.

Written Samples

10 student council speech samples.

Running for a position on the Student Council is a commendable endeavor that requires courage, planning, and a clear vision. Student Council serves as the voice of the student body, advocating for changes, planning events, and representing student interests.

A strong, compelling speech can significantly impact your campaign, resonating with peers and motivating them to vote for you. This article provides 10 distinct student council speech samples tailored for various roles and personalities.

Student Council Speech Samples

Whether you’re running for president, vice president, treasurer, secretary, or a specific committee, these speeches are designed to inspire and guide you in crafting your unique message.

Speech 1: The Visionary Leader

“building a brighter future together”.

Fellow students, today marks a significant moment in our journey together. I stand before you, not as an individual, but as a representative of the collective dreams and aspirations we all share for our school. As a candidate for your Student Council President, I am committed to making those dreams a reality.

Our school is more than just a building; it’s a vibrant community where each of us has the opportunity to grow, learn, and succeed. However, like any community, we face our share of challenges. Whether it’s improving school lunches, increasing club funding, or ensuring that every student’s voice is heard, there is always work to be done.

My vision is to create a more inclusive, supportive, and dynamic school environment. This means establishing open forums where every student can voice their concerns, working closely with administration to implement sustainable changes, and building a culture of mutual respect and collaboration.

I bring to this position my experience as class representative, my passion for student involvement, and my unwavering commitment to our school’s welfare. Together, we can build a brighter future for all students. Let’s make it happen!

Speech 2: The Approachable Vice President

“uniting for a stronger community”.

Hello, fellow students! I am thrilled to stand before you as a candidate for Vice President of the Student Council. My goal is clear: to work alongside the president in creating a united, empowered student body ready to tackle the challenges and embrace the opportunities that come our way.

As Vice President, I will focus on enhancing communication between the council and you, the students. I plan to set up a suggestions box, hold regular meet-ups, and ensure your ideas and concerns don’t just stay heard but acted upon. I understand the importance of teamwork, and I promise to be an accessible, friendly face you can always turn to.

My dedication to our school community stems from my own experiences as an active member of several clubs and organizations. These experiences have taught me the value of listening, the importance of action, and the transformative power of community spirit. Let’s work together to make our school not just a place of learning, but a home of lasting memories and achievements!

Speech 3: The Meticulous Treasurer

“investing in our future”.

Good day, students! As a candidate for the position of Treasurer, I want to talk about an essential aspect of our student council: fiscal responsibility. The role of Treasurer is more than just handling funds; it’s about ensuring that every dollar you entrust to the council is spent wisely and benefits as many students as possible.

I come to you with a strong background in mathematics and a keen eye for detail, qualities that are crucial for managing our budget effectively. I plan to introduce transparent budget reports, seek your input on spending priorities, and negotiate for better deals on our events and supplies.

Investing in our future means more than just saving money; it means funding initiatives that build our skills, enhance our school spirit, and create lasting memories. With your trust, I promise to be a responsible steward of our resources, always seeking ways to improve our collective experience while maintaining fiscal prudence.

Speech 4: The Organized Secretary

“keeping us connected”.

Hello, everyone! As your prospective Student Council Secretary, I understand the significance of organization and clear communication in making our council effective. My mission is to keep us connected and informed, ensuring that every meeting, every event, and every decision is recorded and communicated to you promptly and clearly.

My approach involves not just meticulous note-taking and organizing but also harnessing technology to streamline our communication. This means regular updates through our school’s website and social media, creating a digital archive of minutes and decisions, and ensuring you’re always in the loop.

By keeping our council’s work transparent and accessible, I aim to build trust and encourage greater participation from all of you. Let’s work together to create a well-informed student body capable of making a difference!

Speech 5: The Dedicated Committee Member

“every voice matters”.

Hi, everyone! Running for a specific committee might seem like a small role, but it’s roles like these that make our student council function effectively. As a candidate for the [Insert Committee Name] committee, I am passionate about [Insert Committee Focus, e.g., environmental issues, school spirit, academic improvement].

My commitment is to bring fresh ideas, boundless energy, and a listening ear to this position. I want to ensure that every student who shares a passion for [Committee Focus] has a platform to express their ideas and see them come to life. Whether it’s organizing events, leading campaigns, or working on improvements, I am ready to dedicate my time and effort to make a real impact.

Your vote means not just support for me but an investment in the area we’re passionate about. Let’s join hands and make [Insert School Name] a beacon of [Committee Focus] excellence!

Speech 6: The Inspirational President

“leading with heart and vision”.

Dear students, as I stand before you, aspiring to be your next Student Council President, I am filled with a sense of purpose and determination. This school is not just an institution but a vibrant community where each of us has the potential to thrive and contribute. As your president, I aim to lead not just with decisions, but with vision, empathy, and unwavering dedication.

My vision for us is a school where every student feels valued and empowered. A place where we tackle challenges head-on, celebrate our diversity, and work collectively towards innovative solutions. I plan to initiate regular student-led forums, champion inclusive policies, and ensure that our activities and decisions reflect the rich tapestry of our student body.

My commitment to you is rooted in a deep belief in teamwork, respect, and perseverance. I have learned through various leadership roles that the key to effective leadership is listening, adapting, and inspiring. Together, we can elevate our school to new heights, create a nurturing environment, and build a legacy of positivity and progress.

Speech 7: The Dynamic Vice President

“collaboration and action”.

Greetings, fellow students! As candidates for Vice President of the Student Council, I am excited about the prospect of working closely with the president to amplify your voices and bring your ideas to fruition. I understand that this role is pivotal in facilitating smooth operations and fostering a spirit of unity and collaboration among us.

My focus will be on bridging the gap between students and the council, ensuring that we are not just a body making decisions but a dynamic team working in sync with the student community. I plan to introduce innovative collaboration tools and platforms where every suggestion is considered, and every voice is heard.

With my experience in organizing school events and managing teams, I bring a set of skills that are crucial for the effective execution of our shared goals. I promise to be proactive, resourceful, and most importantly, accessible to each one of you. Let’s work together to make our school a hub of vibrant student activity and shared success.

Speech 8: The Strategic Treasurer

“fiscal responsibility, our collective commitment”.

Hello to all! As your candidate for Treasurer, I am aware of the significant responsibility that comes with managing our student council’s finances. It’s not just about keeping books; it’s about strategic planning, transparency, and making every penny count towards improving our school life.

I bring to this position my experience with budgeting and finance, coupled with a deep commitment to serve each one of you. My plan includes introducing a participatory budgeting process where you get to have a say in our financial priorities, regular financial updates to keep everyone informed, and innovative fundraising ideas to boost our resources.

Investing in our collective future means making smart, ethical, and impactful financial decisions. With a keen eye on our goals and a strict adherence to transparency, I will ensure that our council’s financial health is robust and that our resources are aligned with our shared vision.

Speech 9: The Efficient Secretary

“the backbone of our council”.

Dear students, as a hopeful Secretary for our Student Council, I recognize the immense responsibility of being the link between you and the council’s activities. This role is more than just taking minutes; it’s about ensuring that every decision, every event, and every initiative is documented, communicated, and archived effectively.

My vision is to make our council’s workings as transparent and accessible as possible. This means not only meticulous record-keeping but also innovative communication strategies to keep everyone informed and engaged. I plan to utilize digital platforms to disseminate information, organize feedback sessions, and ensure that our council is always accountable to you.

With a commitment to organization and a passion for communication, I am ready to be the reliable backbone of our council, ensuring that as we move forward, every step is recorded, every voice is heard, and every achievement is shared.

Speech 10: The Passionate Committee Leader

“spearheading change, one initiative at a time”.

Greetings, peers! As a candidate for the [Insert Committee Name, e.g., Environmental Committee] leader, I am here not just to lead a committee but to ignite a movement. Whether it’s enhancing our school’s green initiatives, boosting academic resources, or strengthening our sports programs, each committee plays a crucial role in our student council’s mission.

I am passionate about [Committee Focus] and have spent my time at school actively involved in related projects and initiatives. As a leader, I plan to bring this passion to the forefront, driving innovative programs, rallying student support, and ensuring that our activities have a lasting impact.

Your support means empowering a dedicated leader focused on making tangible changes in our school. Together, we can champion causes close to our hearts, bring about meaningful change, and leave a legacy that future students will be proud of.

In crafting your speech, remember the importance of authenticity, clarity, and enthusiasm. Your fellow students are looking for leaders who not only promise but also inspire and enact real change. Use these samples as inspiration, but ensure your personal story and vision shine through. Good luck!

School Speeches

School speeches generator.

Ever had any experience of delivering a school speech that made everyone stood up on their toes as their applause filled the auditorium as your speech example  comes close to an ending? If you haven’t experienced such a feat before and are just days away from delivering your first ever school speech, you need to know that there are a lot of ways to deliver your speech which leaves a lasting impact on the audience. Don’t fill your mind with thoughts that inspire the growth of anxiety for we offer you tips for effectively imparting the message of your speech to your audience.

• Speech Templates and Examples
• Graduation Speech Examples

But before anything else, not being oblivious to what school speeches are is essential for you to come up with brilliant ideas as you start composing your speech. Examples of downloadable school speeches are also offered in this article which you may use as your reference anytime.

School Student Graduation Speech

Size: 75 kB

Sample School Speech

Size: 56 kB

Law School Speeches

Size: 85.0 kB

Just like any other speeches, the main purpose of the speech should be to deliver your message to a crowd in which the points are moot to those who live by different philosophies or ideas. School speeches have a wide scope of discussion. They can tackle economic, societal, health (in general), cultural, and even individual issues, and aim to raise awareness about these issues. Speeches are filled with ideas that break the norm yet persuade the audience to consider them by making them think. Your points can be easily fortified if you do an in-depth research about your topic and by citing factual instances as your examples. You may also see the  Motivational Speech

The content of the inspirational speech consists of perfectly organized ideas that lead your audience to the core on how you understand things and how the ideas came to be. The ideas are products of critical analysis rather than just relying on the opinions of random sources that are displayed on digital platforms. When the ideas are presented in a disorganized manner, your points or arguments can be easily countered because jumping from one idea to another without a good transition can suggest something beyond what you have failed to research. Now, that is one thing you wish to avoid. Delivering a speech that causes only confusion to the audience does not even equate to not delivering any scholastic speech at all.

School speeches are deemed as vital scholastic projects or activities for this prepares the students in facing possible future impediments that could detriment the growth of humanity. There is power in words that can even bend cultural follies that are continually venerated and preached in the current. Taking into consideration that a school speech is a collaboration of critically analyzed ideas which will be proposed to the public, speeches are meant to inspire other ideas other than what is already in it. Your ideas that stir the ideas of others refers is a response from your audience. That is why it is important for you to choose the right words and terms and doing an extensive research on a certain topic in the process of composing your school speech so that your ideas will suggest other brilliant ideas coming from the audience. You may also see  the Welcome Speech .

Although this scholastic practice is rated biasedly by persons who share different opinions, this is a very good way to prepare young students in combatting future idealists who do not think about the social welfare than merely their own. There are lots of learnings in a well-crafted school speech that enables the minds of the young ones to think beyond the borders of school textbooks. And for you to make a good educator, state something that will leave your audience with a lasting impact on their lives.

Clarke School Speech

Size: 21.0 kB

Writing a School Speech

Writing a school speech can be a challenge if your teacher assigns you a topic you despise or are completely oblivious to. But, not being able to compose an effective one is not a very good enough reason given the access to the internet and school libraries, or other sources you can refer to. To help you out with difficulties in composing one, refer to our tips below. You may also see the  award speech examples .

• Instead of thinking or complaining about how difficult your topic is, motivate yourself to learn about it . A topic which is foreign to you may sound extremely difficult already. The technique for instances such as this is to encourage yourself to learn about certain topics which you know nothing about. Your unwillingness to perform school duties because your teachers have not discussed anything about your topic be the reason why you fail to compose an effective school speech. It comes with the absolute necessity that you do extensive research for your assignments; thereby, increasing the degrees of your understanding of the concept of certain matters to suffice individual curiosity and get rid of ignorance. You may also see the  speech examples for students
• Make certain that your sources are reliable . It has become rampant in today’s age where the spread of fallacious news is forcibly imposed on people who buy any ideas. When doing your research, you have to make sure that the ideas you have gathered are factual. This is why there is a need for you to do an extensive research than just rely on one source. If ever you spot some points in your reference that is questionable to you, don’t hesitate to research more about that point. In the age of digital revolution, the main source of acquiring information is via the internet. There are blogs or articles that may present opinions and ideas rather smartly, even though the ideas being referred to are not accurate. You don’t want your speech to be an embodiment of misleading information. The purpose of your informative speech is to educate, so always take some time to think about the sources of your information before preaching your ideas to your audience.
• Organize your ideas well and deliver a good argument. The organization of thoughts and ideas is important for you not to create ambiguities. A well-organized idea paired with the perfect choice of words is what makes a speech effective. Also, you have to make sure that your ideas from factual sources are arranged perfectly to guide your audience to your main point. If you fail to arrange your ideas, there are instances where one of your ideas breeds to audience assumptions that contradict your other ideas.
• Start with something that stirs the audience’s interests, and end your school speech with a statement that leaves a lasting impact on the audience . Starting with a quote not common to all or a statement that speaks of the very core of your ideas is a good way to entice your listeners. In case your speech fails to do so, your audience will be stricken with boredom and would not bother giving your ideas and opinions the chance to be heard. Furthermore, once you are through with presenting your ideas, write a conclusion that persuades your audience to consider your perspective. This can be attained by writing a conclusion that declares an idea that makes them think rather than declare how your ideas are right and must be implemented. Ending your school speech with a question is a good way to make your audience think, and come up with ideas that even you know nothing about. You may also see the  presentation speech .

School Speech by Superintendent

Size: 187 kB

Sample Speech for Secondary Schools

Size: 232 KB

Head Boys Speech to the School

Size: 120 KB

Middle School Speech

Size: 324 KB

High School Beginning Speech

Size: 653 KB

Summit School Speech Program

Size: 220 KB

With everything that is mentioned above, crafting a commendable school speech would be a whole lot easier. Of course, there remains still the challenges in crafting one but knowing the purpose alone of a speech already unloads the cumbersome thought of making a school speech for purposes of completing your school requirement. State your ideas well, and influence your audience with your brilliant ideas. You may also see the  college graduation speech examples .

Text prompt

• Instructive
• Professional

Create a school speech for an anti-bullying campaign

Help me write a school speech for a new library opening

Global site navigation

• Celebrity biographies
• Messages - Wishes - Quotes
• TV-shows and movies
• Bizarre facts
• Celebrities
• Family and Relationships
• Real Estate

How to write a manifesto for a school prefect with a sample

Some people are born leaders, but leadership skills have to be nurtured. This explains why today, schools take the allocation of power to students seriously through holding elections. Just like politicians, if you want to become a student leader, you must know how to write a manifesto for a school prefect.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

How do you write a school manifesto, 1. introduce yourself and your objectives, 2. talk about your experiences, 3. indicate the problem facing your area of interest and your action plan, 4. be brief, 5. be grammatically correct, manifesto for head girl in school, manifesto for health prefect, manifesto for a compound prefect, manifesto for entertainment prefect, manifesto for the sanitary prefect, manifesto for chaplain prefect, manifesto for school prefect sample, what are 3 qualities a prefect should have.

A manifesto is a public declaration of policy and aims by an individual, especially before an election to a certain position. It helps one spread their message as widely as possible, and therefore, one should be clear on their intentions and ideas. It is an opportunity to inform the voters about oneself.

How to write a manifesto for a school prefect

The purpose of an election manifesto is to convey your intentions, views and beliefs, and motivation behind the specific position you are vying for. To successfully do this, you should ensure that the actual content of your manifesto is Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Time-bound (SMART). Here is everything you need to know about writing a junior school prefect manifesto.

Guide on how to plan a birthday party and get everything right

The manner in which you write your manifesto determines whether or not fellow students will vote for you as a leader. Therefore, you must organize your ideas, beliefs, and plans in a comprehensive way that distinguishes you from other election candidates.

By reading your manifesto, let the students and the whole school fraternity understand the strategies that you will use to cause positive transformations in the institution. There are several areas in a learning institution that require overseeing by leaders. There is the compound, entertainment , health and sanitation.

There must also be a senior prefect who oversees the work of the other prefects. Therefore, when writing your manifesto, consider the position you want and its requirement. For instance, if you want to become a chaplain prefect, your manifesto cannot be similar to that of a compound leader.

15 better ways to say thank you for your patience and understanding

Guidelines on how you write a manifesto for being a school prefect

The first step towards creating an excellent manifesto is to prepare the ideas that you want the public to see. You must know the area that you are interested in. If you are vying for a compound perfect position, you have an interest in that area.

Do some research about the position you want. You do not want to appear clueless about the issues that need to be addressed in that area. Outline all the aspects concerning that position and determine what you will do to make it better. Then proceed to write the manifesto.

How do you introduce yourself in a manifesto? Begin by informing people about your identity i.e. your name and your class. This should be followed by the objectives that you have as a leader. These goals should appear in a bulleted format and a brief explanation for each of them.

Looking for names for holding companies? How to come up with the most meaningful

Your objectives should be feasible. Do not go making promises that can never be accomplished. For instance, if you are a health prefect, you cannot say that you will build a hospital. This is impossible and can make your manifesto less influential.

Let people know about the experiences you have had either at home, school, internship or life in general that make you suitable for that position. If you want the compound prefect position, talk about planting trees in the past or doing a cleanup.

This information should be complemented by a list of skills that you gain. They could be problem-solving, critical thinking, commitment, and decision-making capabilities among others.

Let other students know that you are familiar with the issues facing your area of interest. Then talk about the measures you plan to take to rectify the situation or make it better.

70+ inspiring good luck on your future endeavours quotes, wishes and messages

For instance, if you want the sports prefect seat, you can talk about the number of balls for playing football. Students want to know if you have their best interests at heart and that you can represent them adequately to the administration.

Nobody wants to read long manifestos. After all, there are many people vying, and each has a manifesto that must be read. Be precise, organize your work using bullets and be straight to the point.

Avoid misspelling words, using words wrongly or using incorrect punctuation. Also, ensure to write comprehensive sentence structures. Remember, you want to be a leader. Grammatical errors can reduce the relevance of your manifesto.

How do you make a manifesto?

Now that you have discovered the general guidelines for writing the manifesto, here is an outline of additional requirements for specific positions.

3 types of men who have affairs: How to spot the signs a mile away

To be a senior prefect, you must show how knowledgeable you are about all areas of the school. Talk about the leadership skills that will enable you to ensure that all the other prefects work as a team. Also, let the students you how you plan to represent their concerns to the administration.

Are you conversant with the health services provided in the school? Are students attended to on time? What complaints about your school healthcare facility have you heard repeatedly?

What do you think should be done to address healthcare concerns in the school? Outline your goals as a student health representative. Tell them the steps you will take to ensure that their needs are met satisfactorily.

If you need to know how to write a manifesto for compound prefect in your school, you need to be aware of things like garbage disposal in your school, when and how is the compound cleaned and what are your standards for a clean compound. Outline such aspects and how you plan to make the environment cleaner.

How to write a leave application for school

Also, be wise enough to talk about environmental sustainability now that it is a global issue. You can also talk about making proposals to the administration to allow tree-planting activities in or outside the school.

Here express your interest and knowledge on the importance of nurturing talents. Talk about how talents such as singing, poetry, sports and acting among others are helping people to earn income.

How do you plan to make the entertainment in the school livelier? You can talk about enforcing singing or drama competitions between groups occasionally during school terms.

Your interest here is to ensure that students live in hygienic conditions. Explain your goal of ensuring that they access clean water and clean ablution rooms. What is your action plan? You can make proposals about having hygiene talks with the students.

How to ask for bereavement leave: funeral excuse letter for work

To be fit for this position, you ought to know how to meet the spiritual and emotional requirements of other people. Students are likely to face stress due to poor performance, strict rules or familial issues.

What will you do to encourage them and give them hope? Will you facilitate individual or group counselling sessions? Do you know school-related issues that cause students emotional torture? All these issues must be addressed in the manifesto.

Generally, prefects are expected to establish and maintain the highest standards of behaviour, attitude and appearance at all times. In addition, they are expected to be positive role models for the other students.

With that in mind, anyone vying for the girl prefect position must be in a position to win both the teacher's and the student's hearts with their manifesto. So what should I write in my prefect application? Here is a sample manifesto for school prefect JHS.

Application for employment as a cleaner: guide and 5 samples

The headmasters, assistant headmaster, teaching staff, outgoing prefects and colleague students, I see it a great honour to stand here today to make known my plans when I am voted in power. Things are easily said but not easily done, so lend me your ears as I recount the attributes that back up my claim.

Becoming the girl's prefect at this institute is no joke, and I am more than ready to take up the task and deliver my possible best and to the satisfaction of all. After keenly observing the last two sets of remarkable and hard-working prefects perform their duties, I recognized and learnt that a good prefect should have the following:

• P-Persevering
• R-Responsible
• E-Excellent
• E-Encouraging

When I assume office, here are some things that I will do.

• Ensure that the discipline in the school is raised to the maximum level.
• Improve sports and entertainment activities in the school.
• Ensure that a balanced diet is served at the dining hall.

Tell me about yourself for freshers: how best to answer

Apart from all the things mentioned above, it will be my duty to promptly ensure that all complaints are attended to. This will come in handy in ensuring that all our students continue believing in our school and love it.

Before I leave, I would like you all to remember that a vote for me will surely end well.

Thank you .

The three major qualities a prefect should have to include:

• Leadership skills: Be able to take charge of situations when necessary.
• Responsibility: Should be responsible and reliable, always following through with other students' commitments.
• Communication: Should be able to listen to the concerns and ideas of their fellow students and communicate effectively with teachers and other staff members.

Learning how to write a manifesto for a school prefect is now made easier. Your manifesto speaks volumes about you. Make it brief, organized and straight to the point. Most importantly, be realistic with your plan.

How to write about myself?

Yen.com.gh shared an article on how to write an application letter for employment in Ghana. Writing this letter can seem like a challenging task.

However, if you take it one step at a time, you'll soon be an expert at writing application letters to send with your resume.

Source: YEN.com.gh

Venic Mwendwa Venic Nyanchama is a copywriter with more than two years of working experience in the journalism world. She has an educational background in Journalism and Media Studies from the University of Nairobi having graduated in 2014. Venic works on topics in Facts and Life Hacks since 2018. Email address: [email protected]

Jackline Wangare (Lifestyle writer) Jackline Simwa is a content writer at Yen.com.gh, where she has worked since mid-2021. She tackles diverse topics, including finance, entertainment, sports, and lifestyle. Previously, she worked at The Campanile by Kenyatta University. She has more than five years in writing. Jackline graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Economics (2019) and a Diploma in Marketing (2015) from Kenyatta University. In 2023, Jackline finished the AFP course on Digital Investigation Techniques and Google News Initiative course in 2024. Email: [email protected].

How can an incoming senior prefect write a speech for the school?

Writing a speech as an incoming senior prefect is an important task that requires careful planning and preparation. Here are some steps to help you write an effective speech:

Introduction:

• Start with a strong opening that grabs the audience's attention.
• Introduce yourself and state your intention to become the senior prefect.
• Share a brief personal anecdote or experience that highlights your leadership qualities and commitment to the school community.

Highlight your qualifications:

• Discuss your achievements, experiences, and skills that make you suitable for the role of senior prefect.
• Emphasize your ability to take on responsibilities and fulfill the expectations of the position [1] .
• Mention any relevant leadership roles or involvement in school activities.

Address the responsibilities of a senior prefect:

• Explain what being a senior prefect entails and how you plan to fulfill those responsibilities.
• Discuss your ideas for improving the school community and creating a positive environment [2] .
• Highlight your willingness to assist and support fellow students, whether academically or personally [3] .

Share your vision:

• Express your vision for the school and how you plan to contribute to its growth and development.
• Discuss specific initiatives or projects you would like to implement as a senior prefect.
• Emphasize the importance of teamwork, respect, and inclusivity within the school community.

Conclusion:

• Summarize your main points and reiterate your commitment to the role of senior prefect.
• End with a memorable closing statement that leaves a lasting impression on the audience.
• Thank the audience for their time and express your gratitude for the opportunity to speak.

Learn more:

• Senior Prefect speech - The Student Room
• Persuasive Speech: I Should Be the Next School Prefect Essay | Bartleby
• ...I wrote this letter to apply for senior prefects in my school... any thoughts? - The Student Room

Continue the conversation

Explore more.

A Speech Outlining the Achievements and Problems of Your School

Your school is celebrating the thirtieth anniversary of its founding. As head prefect, you are asked to give a public speech during the celebration. Write  your speech outlining the achievements of your school, the problems and your hopes for the future.

Mr. Chairman, Honourable Member of Parliament, Chiefs, Assembly Members, The Headmaster, Members of Staff, Parents, Invited Guests, Old Students, Fellow Students, Ladies and Gentlemen. I salute you all!

Today is a great day. Today our great school is thirty years old. As you join us to mark this historic milestone in the life of NAVCO, it is only fair that we showcase to you the great strides we have made over the years. This is my purpose for standing before you this beautiful morning. Mr. Chairman, besides our achievements, I intend to touch on the major problems we face as an educational institution.

Mr. Chairman, a direct result of the high level of discipline attained in our school is the yearly improvement in our academic performance. I am exceedingly proud to announce to you that one Student Representative Council (S.R.C.) after another has for the past twenty years set itself a target of a hundred per cent pass in each year’s external WASSC examination. We are grateful to our past and present heads and tutors ,not forgetting our parents, for giving us the needed support to achieve this target over the years.

How to Study WASSCE Online for Best WAEC Results

How to Write a High Quality Argumentative Essay

Allow me to seize this opportunity to give thanks, on behalf of my fellow students, to all who have contributed in diverse ways to the infrastructural development of NAVCO.

We have also done quite well in the sporting arena. The school continues to chalk one success after another in almost every sporting discipline. Our most recent remarkable achievement is our lifting of the trophy for the overall winner in this year’s inter – school athletics competition held right here. Indeed, the walls of our headmaster’s office are decorated with a splendid array of silverware which the school has collected within this period.

One area which demands urgent attention is the need to acquire a new school bus. It will replace the ageing one you can see resting over there. Fellow students, I am sure you will agree with me that our illustrious old NAVCONIANS need no reminding of the pledge they made to us in this regard about a year ago. Please, our brothers and sisters, we are still waiting for you to redeem your pledge .  

Mr. Chairman, NAVCO has not done badly. Our successes in the fields of discipline, sports and infrastructure attest to this fact. We resolve to overcome the challenges in due course. May I, at this juncture, invite you all to come to the exhibition centre this afternoon to witness, in pictures, the thirty-year odyssey of Navrongo Senior High School.

Final Thoughts

Besides the English Language sample essays at Cegast Academy, there are sample essays on Literature, Government and other high school General Arts subjects. Are you looking for practice tests and answers? Look no further. This page contains tests and fun quizzes you will find really useful. What other essay topics would you love to have answers to? Leave a comment below.

Image by StockSnap from Pixabay

Cegast Academy

Share this post.

Get Exclusive Updates & Offers

International Court of Justice: Functions

What is A Paragraph in English? (Definition, Parts and Functions)

Features of the 1969 Constitution of Ghana

Attitude of Francis Towards Religion in Second Class Citizen

WAEC Sample Comprehension Questions and Answers (Part 3)

Discuss the Theme of Superstition in Faceless

Development of Old English Pronouns Essay

Describe The Relationship Between Maa Tsuru and Fofo in Faceless

5 thoughts on “a speech outlining the achievements and problems of your school”.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

What is a School Prefect and What Do They Do?

In GCSE by Think Student Editor May 22, 2021 4 Comments

Almost every school in the UK offers students the opportunity to become a prefect. However, what  really  is a school prefect, and what do they do? This article will answer all your questions surrounding this topic.  

A simple definition of a school prefect is as follows: a student who has been meticulously selected to carry out certain responsibilities and duties. There are many types of prefects, including Head Girl and Boy, House Captain, Library Prefect and  so on . But what do they do? The Head Girl and Boy, for example, give out speeches, represent the school at event s  and   more. The e ntire explanation of each prefects’ responsibilities   is  explained below. School prefects are often elected in their final year of schooling, whether that be Year 11 or Year 13.  

Now, without further ado, let’s jump in!  

Table of Contents

What is a School Prefect?

A school prefect is a n elected  student who has been chosen to perform certain responsibilities , giving them  some authority in school .  There are several advantages that come with this position,  which include  a positive addition  to your CV. There are  multiple  different  categories  of prefects, which will be discussed further on in th is  article.  

When Can You Become a School Prefect?

Generally, the prefect positions are awarded  at the start of Year 11/13 , depending on whether you are in secondary school or sixth form, however this can vary from school to school . O n the whole, this is the most common way schools do this. It is likely these years are chosen because by this time you  will have an extensive knowledge of the school you  attend and   have reached the ‘top of the pile’  by  your last year, so will be more confident and assertive whilst completing your designated assignment.  

Applications for becoming a school prefect are often taken towards the end of Year 10 or Year 12,  again depending on which part of the school you are  currently  in, so in the lead up to the summer term it may be best to start thinking about which position you would like to apply for, if any.  Your school will usually notify you of application deadlines and the positions they have to offer.  

What are the Different Types of School Prefect?

In a school there i s often  a multitude of different  types of  prefects. A quick disclaimer:  this list will not be correct for all schools  but  serves the purpose of  giv ing  a general idea of what can be expected from your average  UK  school.  

Head Girl/Boy

Often considered the most prestigious role a student can be given;  Head Boy and Head Girl hold the most influential position of any prefect in the school.  Often having many candidates, this is a highly competitive and sought-after position.  The Head Boy and Girl represent the school. They should be a good role-model to younger students, and generally lead other prefects as they do their duties .  

Deputy Head Boy/Girl

The Deputy Head Boy and Girl are almost like the understudies of the Head Boy and Girl . They are, again, high up in the school, and  are  expected to do almost the same as the Head Boy and Girl .  The Deputy Head will often take the place of the Head if they are absent , again acting like an understudy. They assist the Head whilst they do their duties.  

House Captain

In  an  average school, their tends to be  in-school  houses.  E ach house is often appointed a  H ouse  C aptain  who  lead  their house to victory in events such as Sports Day.  The House Captain represents their in-school house , and there may be just one house captain or multiple.  

Library Prefects

Library Prefects are responsible for the school library , sometimes taking shifts there, helping students and keeping it neat and orderly.  They may help organise school events to do with  the library , such as World Book Day.  

Hall Monitor

Although they are less common in UK schools, Hall Monitors do exist in some   places .  They exist to keep the halls orderly and neat .  They may monitor halls a t  break or lunch   and can be found all across the school.  

What are the General Tasks of a School Prefect?

A school prefect is expected to carry out multiple duties depending on which position they are given.  Using the list of different prefects briefed above, I shall give an overview of the general duties expected of each type of prefect.  

The Head Girl and Boy   represent the school at events in and out of school , for example an in-school Prize Giving or a local charity event.  They are generally   expected to give public speeches from time to time  in front of different year groups, the school, or attendees to the events they  are present at .  They may also act as a guide for visitors to the school .  The Head Girl and Head Boy tend to lead other prefects and assist them with their duties .  They must also act as good role-models for younger students  and  may get involved in activities involving the lower school .  

Deputy Head Girl/Boy

T he Deputy Head Girl and Boy almost act as understudies for the Head Girl and Boy .  They may attend events in place of the Head  and  fulfil their duties if they are absent .  They too  are present at some  events bu t  appear less frequently .  They assist the Heads in all their duties  and are their second in command so to speak.  They must act as role-models for the younger school  and  may  be involved in lower school events too .  They may also be required to give speeches.  

The House Captain leads their house in school activities, such as Sports Day . They represent their house  and their house’s students .  They take part in all house – related events .  They generally  required to be  athletic , as houses are  most commonly  used in sporting events,  making the   H ouse  C aptain ’ s prime time Sports Day.  They may also represent their school in sporting events outside of school. They must organise House Meetings and be able to communicate with the rest of the pupils clearly. They also help to organise and lead school sporting events and assist school PE teachers  during these activities . They must be friendly ,  a n effective  leader  and a  good   motivator for the  students .  

Library Prefect

A  L ibrary  P refect must be available to take shifts in the library .  They may work behind the desk, helping students with their requests and completing standard jobs such as monitoring overdue book s .  They also have the responsibility of keeping the library neat and tidy, and ensuring all books are put back in a neat and orderly fashion.   They may also have to take care of any rowdy  students who need to be removed or help students who have a question .  They should have a thorough knowledge of books and know where to find specific  novel s . I f a student asks for recommendations, they should be able to give a good , substantial  answer.  They may also help monitor and organise library events , such as World Book Day.  

Hall  M onitors patrol the corridors to ensure all students are behaving and are conducting themselves to a good standard.   They take care of any misbehaviour that may occur  and  alert   member s  of staff   if they see trouble .  They   also make sure students are punctual and attend lessons on time, and ensure all students are  where  they should be  and not loitering in the corridors . They also might help to keep the halls clean and tidy up any mess that may have been left behind.  

What is the “Best” Type of Prefect?

This question varies among different people, but if referring to status then Head Girls and Boy is the best position to be held . They are the student heads of the school and have the most influence out of all the prefects.   

However, to some people being the  leader  of the school would be their worst nightmare, and  a  more discreet role  such as Library Prefect would sound the best to them;  it all depends on who you are.  

How Hard is it to Become a Prefect?  

This depends on your year-group size . If in a class of 1000, it is going to be much more difficult to  gain   a  position than in a class of 200, as there will be more competition.   

Y our general reputation in the school  is important too . If you  are labelled as a well-behaved student in school who consistently tries their hardest in everything they do, you are going to be in with a much better chance than someone who is constantly in trouble with teachers.   

It also depends on which position you go for ; some positions may be in much higher demand than others .  

How Do You Become a School Prefect?  

As you reach the end of the school year in Year 10, applications for prefects next year may start to open . Quite often an application form is given out.  You must then complete this form before the due date , and then give in your form to school.  It really is that simple!    

What is Required to Become a Prefect?

To become a prefect, generally nothing is required, however your school may have a policy that bans people with a certain amount of behaviour points from applying.    

There are certain qualities that are looked for in a prefect, such as being cooperative.  Cooperation is key whil st  being a prefect  as your main duty is to look after other students and assist teachers with jobs.  You must also be helpful and well-mannered . Someone with a particularly bad record in the past will most likely not stand much of a chance of becoming a prefect as the school may think they  will  abuse the authority they are given, or not carry out the ir  duties as they should be,  which is  also  why a prefect must also be trustworthy and responsible.   

Participating in lots of clubs in school should give a boost too , as it shows you are committed to your school and like to try your best in a wide range of areas.   

Although good grades are generally not considered to be important during the process of choosing a prefect,  trying your hardest in each subject is   vital .  If you prepare yourself well and try your best in each lesson, it will be recognised by teachers and will in turn give you a better chance of being given the prefect position.

Very useful

To the point not draged out. Interisting applying for position. Don’t think that was the case in my day.

Very very very Good

Thanks this really helps me thanks again

• Games, topic printables & more
• The 4 main speech types
• Example speeches
• Commemorative
• Declamation
• Demonstration
• Informative

Introduction

• Student Council
• Speech topics
• Poems to read aloud
• How to write a speech
• Using props/visual aids
• Acute anxiety help
• Breathing exercises
• Letting go - free e-course
• Using self-hypnosis
• Delivery overview
• 4 modes of delivery
• How to make cue cards
• How to read a speech
• 9 vocal aspects
• Vocal variety
• Diction/articulation
• Pronunciation
• Speaking rate
• How to use pauses
• Eye contact
• Body language
• Voice image
• Voice health
• Public speaking activities and games
• Blogging Aloud
• About me/contact
• Speech examples
• Student Council speeches

Student Council Speeches

By:  Susan Dugdale  

How to write a winning speech: a template, guidelines, plus example speeches

Student Council Speeches mark the end of an election campaign.

Will yours be successful?

The final answer is in the hands of your fellow students. It's entirely their decision.

However, up until they mark their voting papers 'yes' or 'no' you have the potential to make their choice of candidate for the upcoming year 'you'.

How to write a great student council speech 

Use the quick links below to find what you need to write a great student council speech, whether it's the President, Vice-President, Secretary or Treasurer role you're after.

• the primary purpose of your speech
• a template that includes all the necessary elements of a good Student Council speech
• points to consider carefully before you write
• an example Student Council President speech
• an example Student Council Vice President speech
• an example Student Council Secretary speech
• an example Student Council Treasurer speech
• a printable speech planner and outline to download
• vital tips for rehearsal . These make the difference between looking and sounding polished and bumbling.
• a link to a collection of videoed student council speeches
• how to manage anxiety about speaking in front of others

Understanding your speech purpose

Understanding the nature or purpose of your speech could make all the difference between winning and losing.

Student Council speeches are persuasive speeches . Their ultimate goal is to get you the YES vote.

To help you achieve that use the template, (framework or pattern), below to cover all the essential elements you need to pull together.

In addition, it will structure your speech logically, and effectively, from its opening through to its close.

(I've turned the template into a printable enabling you to plan and outline your speech efficiently and easily. You can download it from the link further down the page.)

Return to Top

Student Council speeches template

• Greeting - Attention Getter - The Hook You'll need an opening statement or rhetorical  question to sit your audience up with open ears and minds. For more see: How to write a speech introduction: 12 of the best ways to start.  
• Who you are - your name, your place or grade in the school, and maybe, your hobbies or interests, and the clubs or teams you're a member of. For example, Amnesty International, the speech and debate club, cross-country and basketball. And if you've used a campaign slogan work it in. It'll jog people's memories. 'Ah, yes, that person!', they'll think. Being known and familiar gives you a head start.
• What you want - the role you are campaigning for: President, Vice President,  Treasurer, Secretary, Historian...
• What you are going to do for the audience - benefits to them in exchange for their vote. (Brief summary -you will expand this in the body of your speech.)
• Credibility - your qualification or expertise establishing your fitness for the role you want. (Brief summary - you will expand this in the body of your speech.)
• Transition leading to...
• Your Main Idea 1 - For example: your goal for the role, what you want to achieve, how you plan to do it, the benefits to your audience - what painful problem(s) will you solve for them, your fitness for the job, transition to...
• Main Idea 2 - Supporting ideas - details and examples - transition to...
• Main Idea 3 - Supporting ideas - details and examples - transition to...

NB. Only include a second and third idea if you have time to expand on them. If not, move through to the conclusion.

• Summary of main points
• Re-statement of what you want - to be elected to the role you're running for
• Re-statement of the benefits to the audience
• Closer, clincher, call for action

Points to consider BEFORE you write your speech

You'll make a better job of completing the printable student council speech template if you  take the time to go through the points below.

And then, read the student council speech examples, before you start to write.

Research the role

Think about your audience, what tone or choice of vocabulary is best suited to them.

Avoid trying to impress with either 'big' words or use of slang. Both are traps! Be yourself. Authentic. Real.

Keep your language conversational rather than overly formal and use smaller rather than large sentences.

Try using active rather than passive words. These convey enthusiasm. For examples, see this page on using action verbs . You'll discover how to go from boring bla bla bland to dynamic excitement.

What 'hook' will you use to get them to listen? Humor? Humor is good if it is relevant and inclusive rather than exclusive. (No 'in' jokes!).

Your goal in the role you want

Avoid setting up expectations that you will deliver beyond your capability. :-)

It might be very tempting, but can you really reduce school hours, increase academic standards, introduce a range of exciting new extracurricular activities, as well as have a 'green day' and a movie night every month? Please keep it real!

Your credibility or qualifications

Now is not the time either to be shy or arrogantly big-headed! Let the audience know how right you are for the role you want.

Set yourself apart from other candidates by sharing compelling personal stories or anecdotes that both support your pitch, and show you understand the key issues that matter to your fellow students.

Your school's requirements

If your speech does not meet pre- established criteria in any way you may find it is returned to you edited. It's safer to find out what those criteria are BEFORE writing to avoid having to re-write or worse, being disqualified entirely.

Mockery and personal insults are not clever. They boomerang back on you, letting your audience know you're not to be trusted and neither are you ready for leadership.

Readily acknowledging the skill and expertise of your fellow candidates sincerely in a way that doesn't demean yourself, or them, shows an open mind and maturity.

Aim to have your speech ready BEFORE the deadline.

Give yourself time to prepare thoroughly, including time to review of your opponents' campaigns. That can be very useful for seeing their strengths as well as their weaknesses, which you can then respond to in your own material.

Student Council President speech example 

Here's a sample student council speech. I've written it from the perspective of someone running for President.

As you read it, imagine it said aloud. That will help you get the rhythm and flow of language. The speech is between 3 - 4 minutes long, depending on how quickly you speak.

Vote Sophia Clarke for Student Council President

"I’ve got a question for you. I’m not asking you to shout your answer out, or raise your hand. All I’m asking is that you give it room in your mind. Let it sit for a bit, and have a think about it.

My question is – do you believe like I do, that all of us deserve the opportunity to make the best of ourselves? Not second best, 3 rd , or even, highly commended. The BEST.

I’m Sophia Clarke. I’m in the 12 th  grade, and I’m running for president. My vision is that each student is enabled to develop the skills and confidence to become the bigger, better version of themselves. The best they can be.  Regardless of who they are, and what they need to achieve that.

It’s an audacious goal. Some would say an idealistic, rather than a realistic, one.

However I say it’s awesome. And that you’re intelligent people who realize that reaching any goal starts with taking the first step.

So let me remind you why choosing me, Sophia Clarke, for president, is also choosing a better chance for yourself, and everyone else to grow.

I know you, and I know your needs well. I’ve served on your behalf in multiple roles through my years here; secretary, auditor, public relations officer, and have successfully taken on multiple issues. You’ll know some of those through directly benefiting from them.

It was me who was behind the push to get a regular anti-bullying program running throughout the school. That was two years ago, and now the  Teens Against Bullying  message underpins what we expect and strive for in our every day dealings with each other.

We know incidents of bullying are far fewer as a result. As our orange tee shirts say we ‘choose kindness, acceptance and inclusion’ for each other, and our selves.

Who has been involved in our mentoring-homework program? Either as a buddy-tutor or as a student getting a helping hand? And who, like me, is passionate about making sure that everybody gets a fair go?

In the past year, under my watch that program has escalated. We have over 50% more tutors across more subject areas and more students taking up the offer of help. That is a fabulous outcome for everybody. Truly win-win.

A tick in the box alongside my name is a tick for the continued growth of those programs. Their value is proven. They allow each of us to grow and experience the strength and confidence that comes from knowing that we can make a positive difference in other people’s lives as well as our own.

When you vote me for President you get my capacity to organize, to liaise, to listen and to speak, working for the benefit of everybody.

A 'yes' for me is a 'yes' for appreciating and celebrating diversity.

A 'yes' for me, Sophia Clarke for President, is 'yes' to a better you.

And together that is a 'yes' to a better life, and a better school, for all of us."

Student Council Vice President speech example

Like the speech above, this one runs to approximately 4 minutes when said aloud. Try it and see.

Nod your head if you've heard of the phrase '2nd fiddle' or '2IC'.

What about 'sidekick'?

Not booting a ball in from a sideline but a trusty partner to whoever it is who has the leading role. Like Robin is for Batman.

Or like, {name of your country's Vice President or Prime Minister} is for {name of country's President or Prime Minister} or {name of your school's Vice Principal} is for {name of your school's Principal}!

Well, that's what I aspire to - to become the trusty, tried and true sidekick to the President on our student council.

My name is Jason Hull. I'm in Grade 12 and proudly standing in front of you today as a candidate for the role of Vice President. Yes, I am asking you to give me something of immense value - your vote.

I know what the issues, here at {name of school} are. As part of my campaign, I've interviewed you, and listened. I promise your ideas will be acted on.

Afterall I've trained for this role, put in the time. You know, I know how to get things done.

Last year I served as Secretary and the year before that I was a representative for the committee - proof that I'm committed to bettering our school environment not just for you, but for everybody!

With your support, I'll be your go-to guy when you want to make sure that your opinions and feedback reach the decision-makers.

One of my main goals as your Vice President is to champion your initiatives: amongst others, that's the library extensions you told me about, the desire for healthier food choices in our cafeteria, and the urgent need to increase and diversify the workforce and out-reach opportunities that so many of you mentioned.

Whether you're passionate about improving our school facilities, or enhancing our community involvement, I'll be there to guide and help you. 

In the role of Vice President, I will work alongside the President fulfilling my duties to the best of my ability. 

Together, we'll make sure that your concerns, and hopes are not just heard but actively pursued. Not 'I' will make sure, but 'we'.

There is no 'I' in we, and that too, is a prerequisite of the Vice President's position: the capacity to put aside ego and to work productively for the good of all.

Because together, we, the Vice President, the President and the other council members, are stronger and can achieve more.

The Vice President role may be a support act but it's a vital one.  To succeed in it, collaboration is key. I promise to work hand in hand not only with the President but also with the entire student council team, our teachers, and our administration on your behalf.

Unity is strength. More than ever, we need to nurture understanding, kindness and respect for each other. Regardless of your grade, interests, or background, I want every one of you to feel valued and heard.

That's a goal many would say is impossible.

However, I say, we need to be the difference we want to see in the world. And to borrow those famous words of Helen Keller's: "Alone we can do so little. Together we can so much."

It would be an honor to be your voice, your eyes and your ears as Vice President.

So, I ask you, will you trust me to have your best interests at heart? Will you enable me to work on your behalf?

And are you willing to give me, Jason Hull, your vote for best sidekick, aka. Vice President?

I'll take those smiles, as a 'Yes'.

Example Student Council speeches for Secretary and Treasurer

Click the link to read an:

• example Student Council speech for the role of Secretary . Plus, an overview of the Secretary's main tasks and responsibilities.
• example Student Council speech for the role of Treasurer . Plus, an overview of the Secretary's main tasks and responsibilities.

(This page was getting far too long to include them both here. ☺)

Get the printable student council speech outline

Click on the image below to open a downloadable printable student council speech planner and outline pdf. (Please note it will open in a new window.)

Your completed outline will provide both the structure and the content you need to efficiently write your speech.  

After you've finished writing your speech

Now that you've finished writing, you're ready to begin work on your delivery: how you present the speech to your audience.

The first step in that process is making sure your speech fits comfortably into whatever time you've been allocated.

After that comes rehearsal. The information you need for both steps is below.

Timing and word count

Student Council Speeches are generally brief: around 1-4 minutes long which isn't a lot of time! That's between approximately 150 - 600 words at an average speaking rate of 150 words per minute.

To be safe say your speech out loud as if you were delivering it for real and time it. In some schools going overtime can result in being disqualified.

Going faster to fit everything in

Please do not be tempted to say it faster to get everything you planned said. As a strategy it doesn't work. You'll end up gabbling: speaking far too quickly and people won't be able to understand what you're saying.

Cutting out extra material

If you have got too much material for the time limit, cut it. Choose the least important ideas to let go of first. Then move on to rephrasing to reduce the number of words used to express a point.

When you think it's done, repeat the test. Say it out loud as if you were actually giving it, and time it.

If you're now within the allotted time, you are ready for rehearsal.

For more about word count see: how many words per minute in a speech

How to rehearse your speech

Please, please  rehearse your speech ! Do not be tempted to wing it. The more you rehearse the easier it will be to deliver it well.

Remember it is only 1 to 4 minutes long! In that time your goal is to have your audience ready to vote for you.

You can help them make that decision by being confident and prepared. You will show that through:

• your speaking style  - natural, sincere, fluent, understandable (clear and able to be heard without straining)
• your body language  - relaxed, open gestures, good eye contact and smiling
• your personal grooming or presentation  because how you look 'speaks' too. Make sure that your clothing and general grooming supports your speech because, like it or not, you will be judged on both!

Go to: how to rehearse a speech properly .

 Videoed Student Council speech examples  

How do other people handle a Student Council speech? What's their content and delivery like?

Are they funny? Formal? Too hurried? Confident? Familiar with the audience?

It can help to look at what others have done. Even if it's only to decide their way will not be your way!

Click the link to access a collection ten videoed student council campaign speeches from the 2018 student council executive board candidates for Malvern Preparatory School, Malvern, Pennsylvania, USA. 

At the foot of the article you'll find links to the videos of the school's 2015, 2016 and 2017 student council campaign speeches.

A word of warning

Ps. panic not.

If you find yourself getting anxious over the thought of delivering your speech, please check this page for help.

• How to deal with acute public speaking anxiety: 14 ways that will help

speaking out loud 

Subscribe for  FREE weekly alerts about what's new For more see  speaking out loud  

Top 10 popular pages

• Welcome speech
• Demonstration speech topics
• Impromptu speech topic cards
• Thank you quotes
• Impromptu public speaking topics
• Farewell speeches
• Phrases for welcome speeches
• Student council speeches
• Free sample eulogies

From fear to fun in 28 ways

A complete one stop resource to scuttle fear in the best of all possible ways - with laughter.

Useful pages

• Search this site
• About me & Contact
• Free e-course
• Privacy policy

©Copyright 2006-24 www.write-out-loud.com

Designed and built by Clickstream Designs

Inspire My Teaching

• Mar 13, 2022

Classroom Leadership: how to effectively choose school prefects for your subject area

How to ensure you get the right subject prefects...

School Prefects: every school seems to have them, but very few seem to have mastered the art of using them effectively. So why is this the case? And, more importantly, how can you select the ones who will save you time and improve standards? Read on to find out more...

The Historic Problem

Time after time we've all seen the "prefect thing" become a "lip service" exercise... where students often gain the title without having to "buy in" to the expectations, or the workload.

Everyone starts out enthusiastically and with high hopes of great change, but in reality this rarely seems to happen. Prefects turn up to the expected Open Evening and dawdle about (frequently checking their watches!), and the only types of questions they ask are: 'When do you think I can go home?' or 'Are there any biscuits left?'

You might be lucky and get one or two decent prefects and you may even get a bit of a classroom display put up for you ... wonkily, but still, it counts as something. Occasionally, you may win the 'holy grail' of prefects and think 'this year we'll finally get things done'... to then have them stolen away by the allure of a better school position when everyone finally realises how good they are. (And this always seems to happen partway through the year when you thought 'all your ducks were in a row'!)

It seems that (excluding the rare exception) we never seem to get 'our money's worth' when it comes to "hiring" prefects, especially not in the long term.

So why do we even bother?

Well, aside from being directed to do this, what is in it for you? FREE TIME! That’s what’s in it for you... if you get this right. (* And obviously the satisfaction that you are nurturing the hidden leadership talents of the next generation.) But mainly free time. And you'll probably think ' Yeah, right’ , but my department are now in the fortunate position where our prefects not only save us time, but actually help us raise standards too.

It sounds so obvious, but the simple truth is that it’s all about motivation. BUT, it's not simply enough to create it… the trick is sustaining it.

What's in it for them?

Let’s face it, students need motivating factors to do pretty much anything. Some you can buy off with ‘ This will look great on your UCAS application ‘ ( Yes, that ol’ chestnut!) and others you will probably have to literally buy off… with time and biscuits… and Amazon vouchers.

This being said, everyone is motivated by something, and that something is usually success. Benjamin Ball's 'Summary of Motivational Theories’ claims that individuals want to work for an establishment where they feel they are able to make a positive difference. If this moral reason fails, then helping people to feel (and look) important can be a very effective motivational tool, too. My department sustain this sense of importance by creating a student hierarchy for our subject prefects.

The Prefect Hierarchy

The Prefect Hierarchy follows a similar pattern to our own teacher hierarchy. Humans adhere to hierarchical constructs, hence the influence Religion, Monarchs and Politicians have always had over us... and why we try to curry favour with our line managers. Students follow a hierarchy in your own classroom with you as the leader they instinctively know they should follow.

Age and status are the two main ways of creating a strong hierarchy. As prefects are close in age, the only structure left is to create status roles within the subject prefect team. schools have been doing this with their 'Head Girl' and 'Head Boy' roles for decades, but I've rarely seen this idea filter into the subject prefect sphere.

My department aim to employ 5-6 subject prefects with the following roles:

Head Subject Prefect

Deputy Head Subject Prefect

Subject Prefect (specific role)

Subject Prefect

This year we've created a 'Head of Literacy Prefect' as this fits well with our department and school aim, but you could create subject prefects with different roles to suit your own department needs. However, be careful not to give every subject prefect a specific role otherwise you tend to get all leaders and no followers... and too many cooks tend to spoil the broth!

You also need to ensure that your 'Head Subject Prefect' is strong enough to 'rally the troops' and keep them in check, but is also kind enough to not become a power hungry dictator in your absence. Young adults are still in the process of learning to be adults, after all.

So, to choose wisely, you need a suitable application process…

The Application Process

With more and more demand to prepare students for their future careers, treating your school prefect application process like a “real” job interview has multiple benefits:

It weeds out the unmotivated

It provides a sense of gravitas that shows students this is important to you (and so should be to them!)

It’s an opportunity for students to gain some worthwhile interview experience (which works nicely with the Gatsby benchmarks)

It means you can better sense leadership potential for creating your prefect hierarchy

We ”advertise” the posts like a proper job interview. Students are told in lessons and emailed the job posting. The post-COVID world has made this even easier with platforms, like Microsoft Teams, allowing you to set such a thing as a voluntary 'assignment'.

We give them a job description and a deadline, and expect a letter of application that details their suitability for the role(s). It's also a good idea to get them to specify the role(s) they are interested in... this really helps to 'whittle' them down for interview. Finally, we make the benefits of the roles very apparent. It's vital to make it clear what's in it for them as we want to keep motivation levels high.

The Selection Process

Since implementing this system, we are inundated with subject prefect applications. One year we had a record 60% of our course students apply for a post... previous to this we were lucky if we got 2 applicants. However, this comes with its own problems... how do you select the right candidates for interview?

Firstly, you need to know your students. Applying for a role naturally opens you up for the possibility of rejection and that makes you very vulnerable... so managing student feedback and expectations is paramount. An innocent but flippant remark from you could really injure an applicant.

We have THREE golden rules for this:

Applicants MUST meet the deadlines and apply as requested (this instantly whittles out those who are not truly interested and applicants tend to take 'your application was too late' much better than 'we didn't feel you were suitable for interview'.

All applicants are kept confidential and are contacted separately (never as a group). This means a student has full control over whether they tell their peers or not.

Feedback must be provided following the "compliment sandwich" approach : compliment, constructive feedback, bigger compliment e.g. " We absolutely loved your energy, but we felt other candidates had more experience with running extra-curricular clubs and that’s something we really needed, however, we thought your interview answers were strong and we know that Geography are really interested in having you as a prefect".

Don't fall into the trap of interviewing everyone who applies just because you feel bad. It sends the wrong message to the stronger applicants, it wastes a lot of your time, and once people complete the interview stage they have naturally convinced themselves that they are the best person for the job. Therefore, telling them they haven't 'got the job' is much harder on them than if they aren't selected for interview in the first place. If you know it's definitely not going to work out, then don't go there.

Once we've selected students we'd like to interview, all applicants are contacted with either a 'please come to interview' or a 'thank you for applying, however...' email. The former can be very generic, however the latter I like to make more personalised and again adopt the 'compliment sandwich' approach. We tend to follow this up with a face to face conversation too.

The Interview

Again, the interview is just like those for a professional paying job... but a little bit softer. I prefer to have two people on the interview panel - it makes sense to ask one of your main A Level teachers to get involved... to give the interview more gravitas, but also to get relevant team members invested in their prefects. For extra status, you could ask a senior leader or Head of Year to help you interview.

To help with nerves and get the interviews off to a good start, we tell students in their 'please come to interview' email what the first question will be. For us, it's always 'why did you apply for this position?' We pre-decide our questions (choose 4-6 which students can elaborate on... you don't want to be there all day!) and print out answer grids for the panel to fill in and score the answers. This is a bit of extra effort, but really helps with the selection process at the end... especially when trying to decide who to appoint for each role.

Last year 15 applied, we interviewed 10, and gave out 6 positions, and the interview answer grids made the task so much easier. It also means you can give detailed feedback if requested... and helpful constructive criticism is always greatly appreciated.

The interviews are around 10-15 minutes each and for confidentiality, I like to choose a suitable meeting room away from our subject teaching area.

Make sure you tell students when and how they will hear the outcome from you and stick to this agreement. It sounds painfully obvious, but leaving people in limbo is a really good way to pee them off… yet it happens repeatedly. Just think back to your last job interview!

So there you have it, a strong methodology for getting the right prefects for your subject area. Check out the sister blog ' Classroom Leadership: how to effectively use your subject prefects in your subject area' for tips on how to save you time whilst raising standards.

For more useful ideas, check out our blogs on leadership and engagement.

If you have found this blog or any of its related blogs helpful, please subscribe and give us here at Inspire My Teaching a big thumbs up!

We love feedback so please get in touch at [email protected]

Recent Posts

Classroom Leadership: how to get the most out of school prefects in your subject area

Create your own teaching resources

Teacherbot allows you the create any teaching resource for any topic in seconds. Sign up for a free account to try!

Introduction: Being a school prefect is an important role that requires responsibility, leadership, and dedication. As a pupil aged seventeen, I am excited to present my manifesto and explain why I am the ideal candidate for the position of school prefect. In this manifesto, I will outline my qualities, skills, and plans to contribute positively to our school community.

Paragraph 1: First and foremost, I believe that communication is key in any leadership role. I am an excellent communicator and have the ability to listen to my peers’ concerns and ideas. By being approachable and open-minded, I will ensure that every student’s voice is heard and valued.

Paragraph 2: Furthermore, I am highly organized and efficient in managing my time. As a school prefect, I will prioritize my responsibilities and ensure that tasks are completed promptly. This will enable me to be a reliable and dependable prefect who can be counted on to fulfill their duties effectively.

Paragraph 3: In addition to my organizational skills, I am a natural leader. I have had the opportunity to lead various group projects and extracurricular activities, which have honed my leadership abilities. I believe in leading by example and inspiring others to achieve their best potential.

Paragraph 4: One of my main goals as a school prefect is to foster a positive and inclusive school environment. I will actively promote respect, kindness, and acceptance among students. By organizing events and initiatives that celebrate diversity and encourage unity, I aim to create a harmonious atmosphere where everyone feels valued and included.

Paragraph 5: Another aspect I am passionate about is academic excellence. I understand the importance of education and will strive to motivate my fellow students to excel academically. I will collaborate with teachers to organize study groups, tutoring sessions, and workshops to support students in their learning journey.

Paragraph 6: Moreover, I recognize the significance of extracurricular activities in a well-rounded education. I will work closely with the school administration to expand the range of clubs and societies available to students. By providing diverse opportunities for students to explore their interests and talents, we can create a vibrant and engaging school community.

Paragraph 7: Lastly, I am committed to promoting a safe and healthy environment for all students. I will actively participate in initiatives that address issues such as bullying, mental health, and physical well-being. By raising awareness and providing resources, I aim to ensure that every student feels secure and supported throughout their time at our school.

Conclusion: In conclusion, I believe that my qualities, skills, and plans make me an ideal candidate for the position of school prefect. I am a dedicated and responsible individual who is passionate about making a positive impact on our school community. If elected, I will work tirelessly to represent the student body, address their concerns, and contribute to the overall growth and development of our school. Together, let us strive for excellence and create a school environment that we can all be proud of.

Make this more complex

Introduction: Assuming the esteemed role of a school prefect demands a profound sense of responsibility, exemplary leadership skills, and unwavering dedication. As a seventeen-year-old pupil, I am thrilled to present my comprehensive manifesto, elucidating why I am the epitome of an ideal candidate for the position of school prefect. Within this manifesto, I shall expound upon my multifaceted qualities, honed skills, and meticulously devised plans to contribute positively to our esteemed school community.

Paragraph 1: Foremost, I firmly believe that effective communication serves as the cornerstone of any successful leadership role. My exceptional prowess in communication, coupled with my innate ability to attentively listen to my peers’ concerns and ideas, will ensure that every student’s voice is not only heard but also genuinely valued.

Paragraph 2: Furthermore, my innate organizational acumen and unparalleled efficiency in time management shall prove instrumental in discharging my duties as a school prefect. By meticulously prioritizing my responsibilities, I shall emerge as a reliable and dependable prefect, consistently delivering prompt completion of tasks with utmost efficacy.

Paragraph 3: In addition to my organizational prowess, my innate leadership qualities have been honed through various instances of leading group projects and extracurricular activities. My leadership style revolves around leading by example, inspiring others to unlock their fullest potential, and fostering an environment conducive to growth and achievement.

Paragraph 4: One of my paramount objectives as a school prefect is to cultivate a positive and inclusive school environment. By actively promoting respect, kindness, and acceptance among students, I shall orchestrate events and initiatives that celebrate diversity and foster unity, thereby creating a harmonious atmosphere where every individual feels genuinely valued and inclusively embraced.

Paragraph 5: Moreover, I am fervently committed to nurturing academic excellence within our school community. Recognizing the pivotal role education plays in shaping our future, I shall endeavor to motivate my fellow students to strive for academic brilliance. Collaborating closely with our esteemed faculty, I shall organize study groups, tutoring sessions, and workshops, providing unwavering support to students on their arduous yet rewarding educational journey.

Paragraph 6: Furthermore, I ardently acknowledge the significance of extracurricular activities in fostering a well-rounded education. Collaborating closely with the school administration, I shall endeavor to expand the repertoire of clubs and societies available to students. By providing a diverse array of opportunities for students to explore their interests and talents, we shall create a vibrant and engaging school community, fostering holistic growth and development.

Paragraph 7: Lastly, I am resolutely committed to promoting a safe and nurturing environment for all students. I shall actively participate in initiatives aimed at addressing pertinent issues such as bullying, mental health, and physical well-being. By raising awareness and providing comprehensive resources, I aspire to ensure that every student feels secure and supported throughout their tenure at our esteemed institution.

Conclusion: In conclusion, the amalgamation of my multifaceted qualities, honed skills, and meticulously devised plans renders me the quintessential candidate for the esteemed position of school prefect. My unwavering dedication and sense of responsibility shall be the driving force behind my tireless efforts to represent the student body, address their concerns, and contribute to the overall growth and development of our esteemed institution. Together, let us embark upon a journey of excellence, forging a school environment that we can all ardently take pride in.

• PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
• EDIT Edit this Article
• EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Happiness Hub Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
• Browse Articles
• Learn Something New
• Quizzes Hot
• Happiness Hub
• This Or That Game
• Train Your Brain
• Explore More
• Support wikiHow
• About wikiHow
• Log in / Sign up
• Education and Communications
• Social Activism
• Volunteer and Community Service

How to Be a Good Prefect

Last Updated: March 12, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Alicia Oglesby and by wikiHow staff writer, Kyle Hall . Alicia Oglesby is a Professional School Counselor and the Director of School and College Counseling at Bishop McNamara High School outside of Washington DC. With over ten years of experience in counseling, Alicia specializes in academic advising, social-emotional skills, and career counseling. Alicia holds a BS in Psychology from Howard University and a Master’s in Clinical Counseling and Applied Psychology from Chestnut Hill College. She also studied Race and Mental Health at Virginia Tech. Alicia holds Professional School Counseling Certifications in both Washington DC and Pennsylvania. She has created a college counseling program in its entirety and developed five programs focused on application workshops, parent information workshops, essay writing collaborative, peer-reviewed application activities, and financial aid literacy events. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 780,640 times.

If you've applied to be a prefect at your school, or you're already serving as one, you might be wondering how to be the best prefect. To be a good prefect, it's important to remember that your role is to help both the faculty and the students at your school. By setting a good example for students, following your school's rules, and being there when people need you, you can ensure that you're successfully fulfilling all your duties as a prefect.

Setting a Good Example

• For example, if your fellow students are complaining because the upcoming dance got cancelled, instead of complaining with them, you could say something positive like, "I know it's upsetting that the dance is cancelled, but we should all get together and think of something else we could do for fun that night."

Following the Rules

Being There for Students

Alicia Oglesby

Compassion is a sign of a thoughtful role model. Show you can be a thoughtful role model for others by demonstrating compassion, curiosity about the world, awareness of different viewpoints, and responsibility in following through on duties. Be solution-oriented and lead by mature example.

Expert Q&A

Tips from our Readers

• Should problems arise requiring administrative attention, advocate for the student perspective to faculty respectfully but steadfastly. As liaison between the two groups, tactfully serve as that crucial bridge for understanding.
• Near the end of your tenure, privately encourage impressive leadership qualities you’ve observed in potential prefect candidates that could continue traditions of excellence after your term concludes. Help guide the future.
• If younger students approach asking for guidance, offer a listening ear and thoughtful bits of wisdom, not just recitations of school policy. Mentor gently when sought out, rather than preaching rules harshly unprompted.
• Keep a subtle eye on fellow prefects too, as your duty requires holding one another equally accountable. Politely but firmly remind any you witness violating codes of conduct, even minor slip-ups. Integrity matters.
• Make an effort to remain visible and unambiguously available for student questions or issues during free periods by wandering halls greeting peers. Your consistent presence cultivates approachability.
• Consider organizing occasional casual social events like movie nights or game tournaments to nurture bonding opportunities for students outside rigid classroom walls. Such activities build community.

You Might Also Like

• ↑ Alicia Oglesby. Professional School Counselor. Expert Interview. 13 April 2021.
• ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/homework.html
• ↑ https://clt.byuh.edu/clt/honest-teacher
• ↑ https://soeonline.american.edu/blog/importance-of-school-attendance
• ↑ https://www.waldenu.edu/programs/communication/resource/how-to-be-an-effective-communicator-in-7-easy-steps
• ↑ https://newtoncollege.es/en/prefect-student-election/

About This Article

To be a good prefect, try to set a good example for other students by having a positive attitude and being respectful. Also, do your best in school since other students will notice how much effort you put in. You should also make sure you follow all of your school's rules, like abiding by the dress code, having a good attendance record, and going to class on time. In addition to setting a good example, try to be there for your fellow students by talking to them about their concerns and supporting students who are having a hard time. To learn how to be fair as a prefect, scroll down! Did this summary help you? Yes No

• Send fan mail to authors

Reader Success Stories

Temitope E.

Did this article help you?

Sahil Ghuge

Dec 5, 2019

Jun 8, 2023

Jan 12, 2023

Tasbeeha Naveed

Oct 14, 2020

Featured Articles

Trending Articles

Watch Articles

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell or Share My Info
• Not Selling Info

Don’t miss out! Sign up for

wikiHow’s newsletter

How it works

Transform your enterprise with the scalable mindsets, skills, & behavior change that drive performance.

Explore how BetterUp connects to your core business systems.

We pair AI with the latest in human-centered coaching to drive powerful, lasting learning and behavior change.

Build leaders that accelerate team performance and engagement.

Unlock performance potential at scale with AI-powered curated growth journeys.

Build resilience, well-being and agility to drive performance across your entire enterprise.

Transform your business, starting with your sales leaders.

Unlock business impact from the top with executive coaching.

Foster a culture of inclusion and belonging.

Accelerate the performance and potential of your agencies and employees.

See how innovative organizations use BetterUp to build a thriving workforce.

Discover how BetterUp measurably impacts key business outcomes for organizations like yours.

Daring Leadership Institute: a groundbreaking partnership that amplifies Brené Brown's empirically based, courage-building curriculum with BetterUp’s human transformation platform.

• What is coaching?

Learn how 1:1 coaching works, who its for, and if it's right for you.

Accelerate your personal and professional growth with the expert guidance of a BetterUp Coach.

Types of Coaching

Navigate career transitions, accelerate your professional growth, and achieve your career goals with expert coaching.

Enhance your communication skills for better personal and professional relationships, with tailored coaching that focuses on your needs.

Find balance, resilience, and well-being in all areas of your life with holistic coaching designed to empower you.

Discover your perfect match : Take our 5-minute assessment and let us pair you with one of our top Coaches tailored just for you.

Find your coach

Research, expert insights, and resources to develop courageous leaders within your organization.

Best practices, research, and tools to fuel individual and business growth.

View on-demand BetterUp events and learn about upcoming live discussions.

The latest insights and ideas for building a high-performing workplace.

• BetterUp Briefing

The online magazine that helps you understand tomorrow's workforce trends, today.

Innovative research featured in peer-reviewed journals, press, and more.

Founded in 2022 to deepen the understanding of the intersection of well-being, purpose, and performance

We're on a mission to help everyone live with clarity, purpose, and passion.

Join us and create impactful change.

Read the buzz about BetterUp.

Meet the leadership that's passionate about empowering your workforce.

For Business

For Individuals

How to write a speech that your audience remembers

Whether in a work meeting or at an investor panel, you might give a speech at some point. And no matter how excited you are about the opportunity, the experience can be nerve-wracking . 

But feeling butterflies doesn’t mean you can’t give a great speech. With the proper preparation and a clear outline, apprehensive public speakers and natural wordsmiths alike can write and present a compelling message. Here’s how to write a good speech you’ll be proud to deliver.

What is good speech writing?

Good speech writing is the art of crafting words and ideas into a compelling, coherent, and memorable message that resonates with the audience. Here are some key elements of great speech writing:

• It begins with clearly understanding the speech's purpose and the audience it seeks to engage. 
• A well-written speech clearly conveys its central message, ensuring that the audience understands and retains the key points. 
• It is structured thoughtfully, with a captivating opening, a well-organized body, and a conclusion that reinforces the main message. 
• Good speech writing embraces the power of engaging content, weaving in stories, examples, and relatable anecdotes to connect with the audience on both intellectual and emotional levels. 

Ultimately, it is the combination of these elements, along with the authenticity and delivery of the speaker , that transforms words on a page into a powerful and impactful spoken narrative.

What makes a good speech?

A great speech includes several key qualities, but three fundamental elements make a speech truly effective:

Clarity and purpose

Remembering the audience, cohesive structure.

While other important factors make a speech a home run, these three elements are essential for writing an effective speech.

The main elements of a good speech

The main elements of a speech typically include:

• Introduction: The introduction sets the stage for your speech and grabs the audience's attention. It should include a hook or attention-grabbing opening, introduce the topic, and provide an overview of what will be covered.
• Opening/captivating statement: This is a strong statement that immediately engages the audience and creates curiosity about the speech topics.
• Thesis statement/central idea: The thesis statement or central idea is a concise statement that summarizes the main point or argument of your speech. It serves as a roadmap for the audience to understand what your speech is about.
• Body: The body of the speech is where you elaborate on your main points or arguments. Each point is typically supported by evidence, examples, statistics, or anecdotes. The body should be organized logically and coherently, with smooth transitions between the main points.
• Supporting evidence: This includes facts, data, research findings, expert opinions, or personal stories that support and strengthen your main points. Well-chosen and credible evidence enhances the persuasive power of your speech.
• Transitions: Transitions are phrases or statements that connect different parts of your speech, guiding the audience from one idea to the next. Effective transitions signal the shifts in topics or ideas and help maintain a smooth flow throughout the speech.
• Counterarguments and rebuttals (if applicable): If your speech involves addressing opposing viewpoints or counterarguments, you should acknowledge and address them. Presenting counterarguments makes your speech more persuasive and demonstrates critical thinking.
• Conclusion: The conclusion is the final part of your speech and should bring your message to a satisfying close. Summarize your main points, restate your thesis statement, and leave the audience with a memorable closing thought or call to action.
• Closing statement: This is the final statement that leaves a lasting impression and reinforces the main message of your speech. It can be a call to action, a thought-provoking question, a powerful quote, or a memorable anecdote.
• Delivery and presentation: How you deliver your speech is also an essential element to consider. Pay attention to your tone, body language, eye contact , voice modulation, and timing. Practice and rehearse your speech, and try using the 7-38-55 rule to ensure confident and effective delivery.

While the order and emphasis of these elements may vary depending on the type of speech and audience, these elements provide a framework for organizing and delivering a successful speech.

How to structure a good speech

You know what message you want to transmit, who you’re delivering it to, and even how you want to say it. But you need to know how to start, develop, and close a speech before writing it. 

Think of a speech like an essay. It should have an introduction, conclusion, and body sections in between. This places ideas in a logical order that the audience can better understand and follow them. Learning how to make a speech with an outline gives your storytelling the scaffolding it needs to get its point across.

Here’s a general speech structure to guide your writing process:

• Explanation 1
• Explanation 2
• Explanation 3

How to write a compelling speech opener

Some research shows that engaged audiences pay attention for only 15 to 20 minutes at a time. Other estimates are even lower, citing that people stop listening intently in fewer than 10 minutes . If you make a good first impression at the beginning of your speech, you have a better chance of interesting your audience through the middle when attention spans fade. 

Implementing the INTRO model can help grab and keep your audience’s attention as soon as you start speaking. This acronym stands for interest, need, timing, roadmap, and objectives, and it represents the key points you should hit in an opening. 

Here’s what to include for each of these points: 

• Interest : Introduce yourself or your topic concisely and speak with confidence . Write a compelling opening statement using relevant data or an anecdote that the audience can relate to.
• Needs : The audience is listening to you because they have something to learn. If you’re pitching a new app idea to a panel of investors, those potential partners want to discover more about your product and what they can earn from it. Read the room and gently remind them of the purpose of your speech. 
• Timing : When appropriate, let your audience know how long you’ll speak. This lets listeners set expectations and keep tabs on their own attention span. If a weary audience member knows you’ll talk for 40 minutes, they can better manage their energy as that time goes on. 
• Routemap : Give a brief overview of the three main points you’ll cover in your speech. If an audience member’s attention starts to drop off and they miss a few sentences, they can more easily get their bearings if they know the general outline of the presentation.
• Objectives : Tell the audience what you hope to achieve, encouraging them to listen to the end for the payout. 

Writing the middle of a speech

The body of your speech is the most information-dense section. Facts, visual aids, PowerPoints — all this information meets an audience with a waning attention span. Sticking to the speech structure gives your message focus and keeps you from going off track, making everything you say as useful as possible.

Limit the middle of your speech to three points, and support them with no more than three explanations. Following this model organizes your thoughts and prevents you from offering more information than the audience can retain. 

Using this section of the speech to make your presentation interactive can add interest and engage your audience. Try including a video or demonstration to break the monotony. A quick poll or survey also keeps the audience on their toes. 

Wrapping the speech up

To you, restating your points at the end can feel repetitive and dull. You’ve practiced countless times and heard it all before. But repetition aids memory and learning , helping your audience retain what you’ve told them. Use your speech’s conclusion to summarize the main points with a few short sentences.

Try to end on a memorable note, like posing a motivational quote or a thoughtful question the audience can contemplate once they leave. In proposal or pitch-style speeches, consider landing on a call to action (CTA) that invites your audience to take the next step.

How to write a good speech

If public speaking gives you the jitters, you’re not alone. Roughly 80% of the population feels nervous before giving a speech, and another 10% percent experiences intense anxiety and sometimes even panic. 

The fear of failure can cause procrastination and can cause you to put off your speechwriting process until the last minute. Finding the right words takes time and preparation, and if you’re already feeling nervous, starting from a blank page might seem even harder.

But putting in the effort despite your stress is worth it. Presenting a speech you worked hard on fosters authenticity and connects you to the subject matter, which can help your audience understand your points better. Human connection is all about honesty and vulnerability, and if you want to connect to the people you’re speaking to, they should see that in you.

1. Identify your objectives and target audience

Before diving into the writing process, find healthy coping strategies to help you stop worrying . Then you can define your speech’s purpose, think about your target audience, and start identifying your objectives. Here are some questions to ask yourself and ground your thinking : 

• What purpose do I want my speech to achieve? 
• What would it mean to me if I achieved the speech’s purpose?
• What audience am I writing for? 
• What do I know about my audience? 
• What values do I want to transmit? 
• If the audience remembers one take-home message, what should it be? 
• What do I want my audience to feel, think, or do after I finish speaking? 
• What parts of my message could be confusing and require further explanation?

2. Know your audience

Understanding your audience is crucial for tailoring your speech effectively. Consider the demographics of your audience, their interests, and their expectations. For instance, if you're addressing a group of healthcare professionals, you'll want to use medical terminology and data that resonate with them. Conversely, if your audience is a group of young students, you'd adjust your content to be more relatable to their experiences and interests. 

3. Choose a clear message

Your message should be the central idea that you want your audience to take away from your speech. Let's say you're giving a speech on climate change. Your clear message might be something like, "Individual actions can make a significant impact on mitigating climate change." Throughout your speech, all your points and examples should support this central message, reinforcing it for your audience.

4. Structure your speech

Organizing your speech properly keeps your audience engaged and helps them follow your ideas. The introduction should grab your audience's attention and introduce the topic. For example, if you're discussing space exploration, you could start with a fascinating fact about a recent space mission. In the body, you'd present your main points logically, such as the history of space exploration, its scientific significance, and future prospects. Finally, in the conclusion, you'd summarize your key points and reiterate the importance of space exploration in advancing human knowledge.

5. Use engaging content for clarity

Engaging content includes stories, anecdotes, statistics, and examples that illustrate your main points. For instance, if you're giving a speech about the importance of reading, you might share a personal story about how a particular book changed your perspective. You could also include statistics on the benefits of reading, such as improved cognitive abilities and empathy.

6. Maintain clarity and simplicity

It's essential to communicate your ideas clearly. Avoid using overly technical jargon or complex language that might confuse your audience. For example, if you're discussing a medical breakthrough with a non-medical audience, explain complex terms in simple, understandable language.

7. Practice and rehearse

Practice is key to delivering a great speech. Rehearse multiple times to refine your delivery, timing, and tone. Consider using a mirror or recording yourself to observe your body language and gestures. For instance, if you're giving a motivational speech, practice your gestures and expressions to convey enthusiasm and confidence.

8. Consider nonverbal communication

Your body language, tone of voice, and gestures should align with your message . If you're delivering a speech on leadership, maintain strong eye contact to convey authority and connection with your audience. A steady pace and varied tone can also enhance your speech's impact.

9. Engage your audience

Engaging your audience keeps them interested and attentive. Encourage interaction by asking thought-provoking questions or sharing relatable anecdotes. If you're giving a speech on teamwork, ask the audience to recall a time when teamwork led to a successful outcome, fostering engagement and connection.

10. Prepare for Q&A

Anticipate potential questions or objections your audience might have and prepare concise, well-informed responses. If you're delivering a speech on a controversial topic, such as healthcare reform, be ready to address common concerns, like the impact on healthcare costs or access to services, during the Q&A session.

By following these steps and incorporating examples that align with your specific speech topic and purpose, you can craft and deliver a compelling and impactful speech that resonates with your audience.

Tools for writing a great speech

There are several helpful tools available for speechwriting, both technological and communication-related. Here are a few examples:

• Word processing software: Tools like Microsoft Word, Google Docs, or other word processors provide a user-friendly environment for writing and editing speeches. They offer features like spell-checking, grammar correction, formatting options, and easy revision tracking.
• Presentation software: Software such as Microsoft PowerPoint or Google Slides is useful when creating visual aids to accompany your speech. These tools allow you to create engaging slideshows with text, images, charts, and videos to enhance your presentation.
• Speechwriting Templates: Online platforms or software offer pre-designed templates specifically for speechwriting. These templates provide guidance on structuring your speech and may include prompts for different sections like introductions, main points, and conclusions.
• Rhetorical devices and figures of speech: Rhetorical tools such as metaphors, similes, alliteration, and parallelism can add impact and persuasion to your speech. Resources like books, websites, or academic papers detailing various rhetorical devices can help you incorporate them effectively.
• Speechwriting apps: Mobile apps designed specifically for speechwriting can be helpful in organizing your thoughts, creating outlines, and composing a speech. These apps often provide features like voice recording, note-taking, and virtual prompts to keep you on track.
• Grammar and style checkers: Online tools or plugins like Grammarly or Hemingway Editor help improve the clarity and readability of your speech by checking for grammar, spelling, and style errors. They provide suggestions for sentence structure, word choice, and overall tone.
• Thesaurus and dictionary: Online or offline resources such as thesauruses and dictionaries help expand your vocabulary and find alternative words or phrases to express your ideas more effectively. They can also clarify meanings or provide context for unfamiliar terms.
• Online speechwriting communities: Joining online forums or communities focused on speechwriting can be beneficial for getting feedback, sharing ideas, and learning from experienced speechwriters. It's an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and improve your public speaking skills through collaboration.

Remember, while these tools can assist in the speechwriting process, it's essential to use them thoughtfully and adapt them to your specific needs and style. The most important aspect of speechwriting remains the creativity, authenticity, and connection with your audience that you bring to your speech.

5 tips for writing a speech

Behind every great speech is an excellent idea and a speaker who refined it. But a successful speech is about more than the initial words on the page, and there are a few more things you can do to help it land.

Here are five more tips for writing and practicing your speech:

1. Structure first, write second

If you start the writing process before organizing your thoughts, you may have to re-order, cut, and scrap the sentences you worked hard on. Save yourself some time by using a speech structure, like the one above, to order your talking points first. This can also help you identify unclear points or moments that disrupt your flow.

2. Do your homework

Data strengthens your argument with a scientific edge. Research your topic with an eye for attention-grabbing statistics, or look for findings you can use to support each point. If you’re pitching a product or service, pull information from company metrics that demonstrate past or potential successes. 

Audience members will likely have questions, so learn all talking points inside and out. If you tell investors that your product will provide 12% returns, for example, come prepared with projections that support that statement.

3. Sound like yourself

Memorable speakers have distinct voices. Think of Martin Luther King Jr’s urgent, inspiring timbre or Oprah’s empathetic, personal tone . Establish your voice — one that aligns with your personality and values — and stick with it. If you’re a motivational speaker, keep your tone upbeat to inspire your audience . If you’re the CEO of a startup, try sounding assured but approachable. 

4. Practice

As you practice a speech, you become more confident , gain a better handle on the material, and learn the outline so well that unexpected questions are less likely to trip you up. Practice in front of a colleague or friend for honest feedback about what you could change, and speak in front of the mirror to tweak your nonverbal communication and body language .

5. Remember to breathe

When you’re stressed, you breathe more rapidly . It can be challenging to talk normally when you can’t regulate your breath. Before your presentation, try some mindful breathing exercises so that when the day comes, you already have strategies that will calm you down and remain present . This can also help you control your voice and avoid speaking too quickly.

How to ghostwrite a great speech for someone else

Ghostwriting a speech requires a unique set of skills, as you're essentially writing a piece that will be delivered by someone else. Here are some tips on how to effectively ghostwrite a speech:

• Understand the speaker's voice and style : Begin by thoroughly understanding the speaker's personality, speaking style, and preferences. This includes their tone, humor, and any personal anecdotes they may want to include.
• Interview the speaker : Have a detailed conversation with the speaker to gather information about their speech's purpose, target audience, key messages, and any specific points they want to emphasize. Ask for personal stories or examples they may want to include.
• Research thoroughly : Research the topic to ensure you have a strong foundation of knowledge. This helps you craft a well-informed and credible speech.
• Create an outline : Develop a clear outline that includes the introduction, main points, supporting evidence, and a conclusion. Share this outline with the speaker for their input and approval.
• Write in the speaker's voice : While crafting the speech, maintain the speaker's voice and style. Use language and phrasing that feel natural to them. If they have a particular way of expressing ideas, incorporate that into the speech.
• Craft a captivating opening : Begin the speech with a compelling opening that grabs the audience's attention. This could be a relevant quote, an interesting fact, a personal anecdote, or a thought-provoking question.
• Organize content logically : Ensure the speech flows logically, with each point building on the previous one. Use transitions to guide the audience from one idea to the next smoothly.
• Incorporate engaging stories and examples : Include anecdotes, stories, and real-life examples that illustrate key points and make the speech relatable and memorable.
• Edit and revise : Edit the speech carefully for clarity, grammar, and coherence. Ensure the speech is the right length and aligns with the speaker's time constraints.
• Seek feedback : Share drafts of the speech with the speaker for their feedback and revisions. They may have specific changes or additions they'd like to make.
• Practice delivery : If possible, work with the speaker on their delivery. Practice the speech together, allowing the speaker to become familiar with the content and your writing style.
• Maintain confidentiality : As a ghostwriter, it's essential to respect the confidentiality and anonymity of the work. Do not disclose that you wrote the speech unless you have the speaker's permission to do so.
• Be flexible : Be open to making changes and revisions as per the speaker's preferences. Your goal is to make them look good and effectively convey their message.
• Meet deadlines : Stick to agreed-upon deadlines for drafts and revisions. Punctuality and reliability are essential in ghostwriting.
• Provide support : Support the speaker during their preparation and rehearsal process. This can include helping with cue cards, speech notes, or any other materials they need.

Remember that successful ghostwriting is about capturing the essence of the speaker while delivering a well-structured and engaging speech. Collaboration, communication, and adaptability are key to achieving this.

Give your best speech yet

Learn how to make a speech that’ll hold an audience’s attention by structuring your thoughts and practicing frequently. Put the effort into writing and preparing your content, and aim to improve your breathing, eye contact , and body language as you practice. The more you work on your speech, the more confident you’ll become.

The energy you invest in writing an effective speech will help your audience remember and connect to every concept. Remember: some life-changing philosophies have come from good speeches, so give your words a chance to resonate with others. You might even change their thinking.

Understand Yourself Better:

Big 5 Personality Test

Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

Use a personal SWOT analysis to discover your strengths and weaknesses

How to not be nervous for a presentation — 13 tips that work (really), is being ego driven damaging your career being purpose-driven is better, put out-of-office messages to work for you when you’re away, how to send a reminder email that’s professional and effective, what’s a vocation 8 tips for finding yours, create a networking plan in 7 easy steps, setting goals for 2024 to ring in the new year right, how long should you stay in a job this guide will help you figure it out, how to write an executive summary in 10 steps, 18 effective strategies to improve your communication skills, 8 tips to improve your public speaking skills, the importance of good speech: 5 tips to be more articulate, how to pitch ideas: 8 tips to captivate any audience, how to give a good presentation that captivates any audience, anxious about meetings learn how to run a meeting with these 10 tips, writing an elevator pitch about yourself: a how-to plus tips, 6 presentation skills and how to improve them, stay connected with betterup, get our newsletter, event invites, plus product insights and research..

3100 E 5th Street, Suite 350 Austin, TX 78702

• Platform Overview
• Integrations
• Powered by AI
• BetterUp Lead™
• BetterUp Manage™
• BetterUp Care®
• Sales Performance
• Diversity & Inclusion
• Case Studies
• Why BetterUp?
• About Coaching
• Find your Coach
• Career Coaching
• Communication Coaching
• Personal Coaching
• News and Press
• Leadership Team
• Become a BetterUp Coach
• BetterUp Labs
• Center for Purpose & Performance
• Leadership Training
• Business Coaching
• Contact Support
• Contact Sales
• Privacy Policy
• Acceptable Use Policy
• Trust & Security
• Cookie Preferences