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Students at Speech Team Competition

Join the Speech Team at Bancroft School in Worcester, MA

Find Your Voice. Speak Your Mind

Who says you can’t be a nationally recognized speech team and have fun at the same time? Meet the Speechies! In their 21 years of existence, the Bancroft Speech team in Worcester, MA has been a force in the Massachusetts Speech & Debate League. Working with experienced coaches, students become well-versed in acting, public speaking, poetry, argumentation, and current events. They participate in competitions all over the state and across the country – and they win. A lot. Learn more about our Speech team here at Bancroft today. 

Discover the Power of Speech

Led by our Upper School teachers Pam and Chris Sheldon, Bancroft’s Speech Club offers a transformative experience that goes beyond honing public speaking skills. Speechies immerse themselves in a world of self-expression, critical thinking, and impactful communication, pitting their skills against the brightest minds in speech and debate. Through various events at the state and national levels, our students learn the art of delivering persuasive, thought-provoking performances. 

Speech isn’t just about words – it’s an art form that enables students to unleash their creativity and express their unique perspectives. Whether it’s crafting a moving dramatic interpretation or delivering a powerful debate, students find their artistic voice and develop the confidence to share it with the world. 

Nurturing Confident Communicators & Competitive Excellence

Our experienced coaches work closely with each Speech team member, providing thoughtful guidance and personalized feedback to nurture their growth as proficient communicators. From refining vocal delivery to mastering the nuances of body language, Bancroft Speechies gain invaluable skills that extend far beyond the stage. 

Our students have a strong track record of success in local, regional, and national competitions. Since its formation in 2002, the Speech team has garnered 37 individual state champions, 103 national qualifiers, and five National Speech and Debate Tournament finalists, showcasing Bancroft’s commitment to excellence.

Parental Involvement – A Key Pillar to Success

The support and engagement of parents empower students to excel both on and off the stage, making Bancroft's prestigious Speech team truly extraordinary. Together, parents, coaches, and students form a unified force, propelling our young communicators to leave a lasting impact on their communities and the world around them. 

Join the Bancroft Speech Team

If you’re ready to take the spotlight and make your voice heard, the Bancroft Speech team invites you to embrace the power of self-expression. With over two decades of achievement and national recognition, the Speechies are more than just a team – they’re a community of students who elevate one another and conquer every stage they step onto. Join the Bancroft Speech team and amplify your voice today. 

Keeping Up with the Speechies

Check out the team's dedicated page or twitter feed for all the latest news and information.

National Tournament

14 Bancroft students qualified for this year's National Tournament.

98

National Qualifiers Since 2014

State Champions

37 Bancroft students have been named Massachusetts State Champions since the team began in 2002

National Finalists

5 Bancroft Students have finished as finalists at Nationals

Meet Our Speech Team Coaches

Chris Sheldon Speech Team

Chris Sheldon

Upper School  Performing Arts & History Teacher
 

Pam Sheldon Speech Team Coach

Pam Sheldon

Upper School Science & Health Teacher