In the sixteen years that the Speaking Awards and in the nine years that the Writing Awards are held, there were a lot of students that competed in this contest. We can tell you over and over again about the fun and experience of these two contests, but we think it is better to let you read about the fun and the experience your predecessors had.

"For students with a love for the written word, there is no better competition to test one's proficiency in English and writing than the BBC Young Writers Award. Besides the actual challenge the contest itself gave, what I remember most dearly is the awe with which I was struck during and after the finals. You suddenly find yourself in the British Ambassador's home, chatting with world-renowned BBC-journalists, and are told that you are leaving for a writing course in Scotland. Because this course is located in the loveliest of surroundings, you are adequately inspired to write your best work ever there!"

Jeroen Claus
BBC YWA-winner, 2003

"I participated at the BBC Public Speaking Competition because I wanted to challenge myself. Never before did I have to speak in front of a group of people bigger than my own class. I was actually slightly afraid of speaking in front of a crowd.
The competition completely changed that. Through participating, I learned how to effectively present myself in public. Doing this really gives a great kick!
Thanks to my participation, I managed to join several debating programmes on Dutch national television and radio. Also, it helped me get into my current university, the London School of Economics. But more importantly: public speaking is a life skill, absolutely essential for anyone!"

Arthur Krebbers
BBC PSA-winner 2003