Students are to demonstrate their etiquette and interpersonal and communication skills as part of the Mr and Miss CedarBridge pageant.

The event is scheduled to take place at the Ruth Seaton James Auditorium at CedarBridge Academy, Devonshire on Saturday from 7pm.

The theme of this year’s pageant, the first since 2019, is “Celebrating 25 Years of Excellence”, marking the anniversary year of the school.

The students competing for Mr CedarBridge are Gregory Talbot, Kenyari Dotting and Nathan Wilson, and those competing for Miss CedarBridge are Rhylee Edwards, Maia Bento-Fray, Kailee Spring, Siniah Lambe, Teh-Kala Lambert, Amber Smith-Burchall and Milae Smith.

Dean Foggo, the 2021 Bermuda Education Network’s Teacher of the Year and the teacher who founded the pageant in 1999, has been responsible for planning and rehearsals this year.

Mr Foggo, who will MC along with Melanie Burrows, pageant committee member and former lower senior year head, said: “It is so exciting that after all these years students still see the value of this programme.

“The pageant gives them the opportunity to sharpen their speaking skills, perfect how they carry themselves and communicate — things that we don’t directly teach in class.

“It helps them to challenge themselves and step outside their comfort zone. I have seen students grow immensely through the pageant. A lot of it is about gaining confidence.

“I told this year’s finalists that while only two will walk away with the crown, they are all winners.”

Tickets are $20 general admission and $40 for patrons, and are available by calling the school on 296-5665.