Students show it’s good to talk

Effective communication within their community has won students and teachers at St Neots Community College a cash prize in a national competition. The college beat almost 900 primary and secondary schools from across the country to win £1,000 in the BT Sc

Effective communication within their community has won students and teachers at St Neots Community College a cash prize in a national competition.

The college beat almost 900 primary and secondary schools from across the country to win £1,000 in the BT Schools' Awards 2005-06.

Judges looking for effective communication in all areas of school life were impressed with the college's website, student newspaper, newsletter and parents' information evenings, as well as other methods of spreading the word around the community.

The college's literacy co-ordinator Tamsin Eddy said: "We're all delighted at winning this prize and gaining national recognition for the way in which we communicate in different areas of school life."

She added: "Good communication is about improving how we relate to others; in our personal life, at work and in public. It is vital for our society because it prevents misunderstandings and promotes harmony."

As well as a cheque for £1,000, the college will be presented with a DVD player and resources, and will receive a visit from BT's Communication Skills Roadshow.

Katherine Smith of the BT Schools' Awards Team said: "The judges were very impressed with the evidence of the speaking and listening activities that are taking place in your classroom, school and community."

Pictured above are literacy co-ordinator Tamsin Eddy, with students Cavan Sturgess, Helen Martin and Ashley Southgate, putting their skills into practice.

Picture: IAN NARIN