RGS Guildford courtyard with students

Grand Final of the 200 Seconds Competition

At the end of April, the Grand Final of the 200 Seconds competition took place in the Auditorium, marking a significant event in our Scholarship for All programme. This year was particularly special as it was the first time the competition was run jointly with RGS Dubai. The event featured three finalists each from our First and Second Form, as well as three Year 7 students from RGS Dubai, all of whom delivered presentations within the strict time limit of 200 seconds.

The theme of this year’s competition was “iconic,” and it was truly inspiring to see the diverse and creative ways in which the students interpreted this prompt. The audience, comprising pupils from both RGS Guildford and RGS Dubai, was treated to an exceptionally high standard of performances. Each presentation showcased the students’ unique perspectives and talents, making the evening both engaging and thought-provoking.

The team of judges, consisting of two staff members from each school, faced the challenging task of evaluating the presentations. The high calibre of the performances meant that the decisions were made based on the narrowest of margins. After much deliberation, the judges awarded the prizes as follows:

  • RGS Dubai Year 7 winner: Chloe
  • RGS Guildford First Form winner: Adithya
  • RGS Guildford Second Form winner: Thomas
  • Overall winner: Thomas Jacob

Thomas’s presentation stood out not only for its content but also for his delivery, earning him the title of overall winner. His ability to captivate the audience and convey his interpretation of the theme “iconic” was truly remarkable.

The Grand Final of the 200 Seconds competition was a resounding success, highlighting the importance of fostering creativity and public speaking skills among students. The collaboration with RGS Dubai added an exciting international dimension to the event, enriching the experience for all participants. The evening was a testament to the talent and dedication of our students, and it reinforced the value of providing platforms for them to express their ideas and develop their skills.

As we look forward to future competitions, we are excited to see how this event will continue to evolve and inspire our students. The 200 Seconds competition not only celebrates individual achievements but also strengthens the bonds between our schools, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.