Win, win, win for East Ren schools

Year three students from Mearns Castle and Barrhead high schools took first and second place, respectively.

Topics included the 100th anniversary of the start of the First World War: How important is it that all generations remember and are aware of the sacrifices made by others on their behalf?

Another: Following the successful hosting of the 2014 Commonwealth Games, what will be their impact for both Glasgow and Scotland?

A third option was: On balance, does social media and the virtual world occupied by many young people today have more good aspects than bad?

Competition chairman Bill Leeming, a past president of Renfrew Speakers Club, presented the trophy. He said: “The standard of speaking was exceptionally high and both teams deserved their place in the grand final.”

All of the teams participating were presented with an Association of Speakers Clubs certificate of achievement.

The win took both teams forward to a grand final competition in the Normandy Hotel, Renfrew, to battle it out for the coveted John Richardson Quaich Trophy but podium glory eluded them and they came home empty handed. The quaich was won by Gryffe High School, Renfrewshire.

Meanwhile, year six pupils at Mearns Castle brought home two top trophies in a business trade fare.

Sourcing, costing, pricing and selling tartan products under their own Red Tartan brand in a real business environment brought home profits and prizes to add to the school’s successes.

The Young Enterprise trade fair at Soar in Braehead showcased the businesses of schools across the region.

Mearns Castle won best display and the Patter Merchant trophy for demonstrating excellent selling and promoting skills.

A spokeswoman for the school said: “We’re very proud of our pupils. They displayed a high level of achievement in public speaking while our older students have set up a successful business.”