A shared language: isn’t it amazing how it can bridge cultures? Here we are at the English-Speaking Union, or ESU. This is an international educational organization. Its headquarters are right here in London.
The English-Speaking Union was founded in 1918 by Sir Evelyn Wrench. His goal was to unite people through communication. He wanted to empower people from different backgrounds. The ESU aimed to build their skills and confidence. This would help individuals realize their potential.
The English-Speaking Union has a global reach. There are 35 branches in the UK. Plus, there are over 50 international ESUs worldwide. The ESU carries out many activities. Debating, public speaking and student exchange programs are just a few. They also host conferences and seminars. The ESU offers scholarships too. All of this encourages effective English language use.
The English-Speaking Union’s aims are clear. They focus on education. They respect traditions and heritage. They also acknowledge current events. The ESU promotes English. It is seen as a tool for international communication. This shared language fosters knowledge and understanding. All activities are pursued in a non-political and non-sectarian way.
Queen Elizabeth II was the royal patron of the English-Speaking Union. Princess Anne has been president since 2013. She took over from her father, Prince Philip. He served from 1952 to 2012. The English-Speaking Union is headquartered at Dartmouth House. It is located on Charles Street, Mayfair. The director-general coordinates activities. A sixteen-member board governs the ESU. They meet four times a year. The chair presides over these meetings.
The English-Speaking Union believes in oracy. Oracy means speaking and listening skills. The ESU actively encourages these skills. They should be central to the school curriculum. The ESU’s education department runs The ESU Schools Mace. This is the oldest and largest debating competition for schools in England.
Speech-led competitions are also important. Performing Shakespeare is a national contest. It is for secondary school students. The ESU-Churchill National Public Speaking Competition is another. There is also the International Public Speaking Competition. This reaches over one million young people. They come from more than 50 countries. National winners meet in London for the final.
The English-Speaking Union also runs workshops. They are games-led and focus on debate and public speaking. These take place in schools. The ESU guides schools. They help them set up debate clubs. The ESU provides professional development. This is for teachers in speech and debate.
The English-Speaking Union has a Secondary School Exchange Programme. British students can study in the US or Canada. This happens during their gap year. In return, American students come to British schools. This program began in 1928. It was originally known as the British and American Schoolboy and Schoolgirl Exchange.
The US–UK Debate Tour Exchange is another key program. Two British student debaters tour the US. They visit about 30 states over three months. In return, two American debaters visit the UK. This program started in 1922.
The English-Speaking Union offers music scholarships. These are for students at top conservatoires. Tasmin Little and Nigel Kennedy are alumni. Both are famous violinists.
The Lindemann Trust Fellowships are prestigious. They are research grants for postdoctoral scientists. These scientists study physical sciences. The fellowships allow them to research in the USA. The ESU has administered them since 1972.
The English-Speaking Union continues to promote global understanding. It does this through language and education. Its programs have impacted countless lives. The ESU truly expands minds. It strengthens friendships. It unlocks opportunities. All through the power of the English language.