Speak and Present with Confidence: Communication and Presentation Skills

This course requires you to follow an application process.
Course code: 27253

When & Where

In-house

Hatfield Library

From 24 September 2026 to 22 October 2026

Thursday 10:00-12:30

5 weeks

Hatfield

AL10 0LD

Fees

Full fee: £10

Concession fee: £0

Date

24 September 2026

Time

10:00-12:30

Date

01 October 2026

Time

10:00-12:30

Date

08 October 2026

Time

10:00-12:30

Date

15 October 2026

Time

10:00-12:30

Date

22 October 2026

Time

10:00-12:30

What is this course about?

This course is designed to help you speak with clarity, confidence and impact in both professional and social settings. You will explore practical techniques to engage your audience, structure your message effectively and use your voice and body language with purpose. Through guided practice, you will learn how to avoid common presentation pitfalls, improve diction, pacing and intonation, and make confident use of resources, props and visual aids. By exploring examples of effective speakers and applying these techniques yourself, you will steadily build confidence and presence when speaking in front of others.

Any previous experience/qualifications you need to do the course

Learners should have a good level of conversational and written English to fully participate in discussions and presentation activities.

What you need to bring with you

If online, learners must have access to a laptop, tablet or desktop with good wifi and a webcam.

Who is the course for?

This course is suitable for anyone who wants to improve their public speaking skills, whether presenting in meetings, delivering talks, speaking online or contributing more confidently in group situations. It is ideal for learners who wish to build confidence while communicating more clearly and engagingly.

The next steps....

Throughout the course, you will be encouraged to think about how to use your new skills beyond the classroom. This may include progressing to other courses or workshops on job searching or courses to improve your confidence. Many learners use the skills gained to apply for new roles, attend interviews with increased confidence, contribute more effectively in meetings or deliver clearer and more engaging presentations at work. The techniques learned can also enhance social communication, helping you speak more confidently and connect with others in group situations.

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We have programmes that can support you with your next steps in skills and employment. For further information please see our information, advice and guidance page.

How you will be assessed

Assessment is supportive and practical, focusing on your development throughout the course. You will take part in questions and discussions, complete weekly learner reflection forms, and deliver three short presentations. Each presentation will be followed by constructive, positive feedback from both peers and the tutor to help you recognise progress and identify areas for improvement.

How much studying will I need to do outside the lesson?

You will be asked to prepare and practise three short speeches during the course. The amount of time you spend practising is flexible and can be tailored to your own goals, though regular practice will help you gain the most benefit and confidence