A lively programme of verse speaking and reading classes took place in the Sanctuary of St Matthew’s Church on Wednesday morning and afternoon, adjudicated by Judey Struth. Pupils from a number of local schools demonstrated confidence and creativity in a wide range of poetry and prose performances.

The morning began with a Primary Age Verse Speaking Choir, where Strathallan Preparatory School Year 6presented extracts from The Song of the Jellicles by T. S. Eliot and the Witches’ Song from Shakespeare’s Macbeth.

Individual classes followed, with pupils aged between five and eight delivering prepared readings, Bible passages, poetry, and Scots verse. Competitors from Strathallan Preparatory School, Craigclowan School, and RDM took part, performing works by authors including Roald Dahl, Colin McNaughton, Brian Moses and J. K. Annand. A non-competitive “Poetry for Pleasure” class also allowed young participants to share favourite verses simply for enjoyment.

Later in the morning, older primary pupils recited William Soutar’s poem The Wind in the Soutar poetry class.