The English-Speaking Union
Competition Lead

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Support young people to find their voice through debating, public speaking and performance
The English-Speaking Union is looking for confident, responsible and reliable individuals to lead our Schools’ Mace Debating, Public Speaking and Performing Shakespeare competitions.
Hours: Ad hoc, mostly weekday evenings (16:00–20:30)
Fee: £70 (online) / £120 (in person) + travel expenses
Location: Across England and Wales (travel required)
Reasons to use Rodeo
I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
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Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
See breakdownIt searches the market for you
Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
Contract: Freelance
DBS: Basic check required (processed by the ESU)
As a Competition Lead, you will host online and in-person events, manage logistics on the day and support volunteer judges. You may also act as a judge, providing constructive feedback to students. This is a rewarding opportunity to support young people’s confidence, communication and critical thinking skills.


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We’re seeking confident communicators with excellent organisational skills, experience engaging with young people and a passion for education and oracy. Familiarity with Zoom and event hosting is essential.
Please note: It will be compulsory to attend an in-person paid training day on Tuesday, 6 October.
For the full job description and person specification, see here: esu.org/work-with-us
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Jessica, London
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