Public speaking

I popped into the old school this morning to catch a public speaking workshop led by two representatives from the Penang Toastmasters Club. About 15 students from Forms Five and Six were in the thick of delivering their prepared speeches to the Toastmasters. It was a pleasant surprise to walk into the room and be greeted by smiles from several familiar faces among the students—many of whom had attended either the leadership or free school guiders workshops from last year and this year. I made myself comfortable and watched them in action. I must say, these boys and girls impressed me with their speaking skills.

After each speech, the two Toastmasters offered their feedback, giving insightful comments and personal coaching tips on how to refine their presentations. Their advice was both constructive and encouraging, which I'm sure the students found invaluable. With just a week to go before the Cheeseman Elocution Contest in the Pinhorn Hall, I hope these tips will help them polish their performances to perfection.

This public speaking workshop was the brain child of The Old Frees' Association as part of their ongoing collaboration with Penang Free School. The upcoming elocution contest is named in honour of Harold Cheeseman, one of the most influential and respected educators to have ever walked the halls of the Free School. His entire career was dedicated to the field of education, during which he spent an impressive 41 years serving in Penang, Malaya and Singapore.

Cheeseman’s journey began as an Assistant Master at Penang Free School, where his commitment and passion for education shone through. His influence grew over the years, and he eventually rose to become the Director of Education for post-War Malaya—a position that put him in charge of the entire educational system in the region. His legacy is deeply ingrained in the history of Penang Free School, and the Cheeseman Elocution Contest is a fitting tribute to a man who valued the power of words and the importance of clear, confident communication.

To delve deeper into the life and contributions of Harold Cheeseman, click on this link to learn more about his remarkable career and lasting impact on education in the region.

Only the Sixth Formers remained when this group photo was taken as the Form Five boys had returned to their classes