Somerset Speaks European in Brussels

On 3 December a team of young people from Kingsmead Community School in Somerset took part in the grand final of the Assembly of European Regions’ (AER) ‘Do you speak European Competition?’. Kingsmead had battled their way through tough regional and national heats to represent the UK in Brussels.

The grand final attracted entries from eleven countries, with each presenting their views on the question ‘what does Europe mean to you?’. The Kingsmead team delivered a lively and engaging presentation which culminated in a piece of choral speaking and an assertion that ‘we do not only speak European, we also think European. We need this Europe and the world needs it too’.

Although Kingsmead were not declared the winners, participation in the Europe-wide competition proved to be a very valuable and enjoyable experience.

Eva Heim, Director of Languages at Kingsmead Community School said;

"This has been a great experience for these children. They are from a rural area yet this competition has given them the opportunity to meet other young people from around the European Union. It has definitely opened their eyes and made them realise that many of the children from other countries have the same views and ideals for the future."