A Merton Park student is through to the final of one of the world’s largest youth public speaking event.

Calum Thorne from Rutlish School recently won a place in the grand final of Jack Petchey’s 'Speak Out' challenge.

More than 19,000 kids from across the country took on the challenge that saw a speech contest held following a day of public speaking workshops.

Calum not only won the Merton regional final, but has now been selected as one of only 15 overall finalists.

His speech is entitled 'You can do it' and he will deliver it at Covent Garden’s Cambridge Theatre on Monday July 2 in front of more than 1000 spectators.