A PUBLIC speaking challenge has boosted pupils' confidence.

Far Forest First School Class Three children all completed their English Speaking Board Junior Assessments last term.

Since Christmas they have learnt poems, given talks and read favourite passages from books.

"Each child has gained in confidence and increased their oral skills, which are an increasingly part of the 21st century," said head teacher Max Davis.

The English Speaking Board is an educational charity which promotes and encourages better oral communication.