Falkirk district pupils among finalists in national joke telling competition

Arya Skinner, a P3 pupil at Denny Primary and Oliver Hughes, from P6 at Westquarter Primary, impressed local judges in a nationwide contest for primary schools with a joke that was graded on originality, delivery and its punchline.

The youngsters won £100 worth of Harper Collins books for reaching the final in VoiceBox, which aims to shine a spotlight on the crucial role communication plays in a child’s development and the impact speech and language therapy has on their future.

Arya and Oliver went head-to-head with jokes from across the area and were crowned best in Falkirk – earning a place in the grand final at the Scottish Parliament last Thursday.

Oliver took part in the event which had MSPs in fits of laughter, however Arya was unable to attend on the day.

Both received a medal and a goodie-bag for reaching the final, as well as £100 worth of books from HarperCollins for their schools.

Ten-year-old Gordon Moodie from Cockenzie Primary School in East Lothian was crowned the winner on the day with his joke: “Why did the donkey go to the shops? Cause he had hee haw in the hoose!”

Gordon received £500 worth of books for his school from competition sponsor Collins Big Cat while runners up Zara Scott (P2 at Newport Primary, Fife)l Gregor Agnew (P6 at Lincluden Primary, Dumfries and Galloway) and Ismail Iqbal (P7 at Newarthill Primary, North Lanarksire) each received £200 worth of books for their school.

The winners also received toy gift cards.

Glenn Carter, Head of RCSLT Scotland, said: “VoiceBox goes beyond entertainment; it highlights the vital role of speech and language therapy in empowering children to express themselves. It was brilliant to see all the kids here, and the RCSLT is thrilled to have brought VoiceBox to the Scottish Parliament, where it received such enthusiastic support. The joy and laughter shared today highlight the power of communication and the importance of nurturing it in our young people.”

Presiding Officer, Rt Hon Alison Johnstone MSP, said it was “a pleasure” to host the final, adding: “The children put so much effort and thought into their jokes, which were a testament to their creativity and confidence. Events like these showcase the importance of helping children find their own voice and share their unique perspectives with the world.”