Jess Haworth Carrington Talk
14 November 2024 - All
The Carrington Programme is our tailored enrichment initiative designed to equip Sixth Form pupils with skills beyond the curriculum. Through a diverse range of forward-thinking activities, the programme prepares girls for the challenges of adult life—both personal and professional. As a part of the Carrington Programme, we host a range of inspirational speakers covering a range of areas of expertise.
At the end of last term, UVI pupils had the privilege of attending an enlightening talk on Positive Communication, presented by Wycombe Abbey Senior, Jess Haworth (Sivewright, C234, Wendover, 2003). The session provided a comprehensive exploration of the many facets of communication, delving into not just verbal interactions but also the subtler nuances of body language, facial expressions, and even attire. Jess emphasised that effective communication extends far beyond mere words, with each of these elements playing a vital role in how we convey our thoughts and feelings to others.
One key focus of the talk was on making positive first impressions, particularly in high-stakes situations like university interviews, which are a top priority for many UVI pupils at the moment. Acknowledging that approaching new people can often feel intimidating, Jess shared practical advice to help ease these concerns. She offered several top tips, such as understanding the appropriate physical distance from the interviewer, employing an effective ‘power pose’ to exude confidence, maintaining appropriate eye contact, and handling challenging questions with composure and clarity.
Jess also addressed the art of public speaking, providing strategies to enhance both confidence and effectiveness when addressing an audience. One of the main takeaways from her advice on engaging an audience was the importance of using varied tones of voice. Many speakers tend to limit themselves to just three tones, which can make presentations sound monotonous and unenthusiastic.
The event was a resounding success, and it’s always a pleasure to welcome back Wycombe Abbey Seniors to share their knowledge and experience with our community.
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