Christopher Kearns, a Primary Three pupil at Tong Primary School in Lewis, had MSPs
in fits of laughter at the VoiceBox grand final – a national joke-telling competition
organised by the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT).
The youngster represented the Western Isles at the joke-telling final hosted at the
Scottish Parliament.
The final featured 32 pupils from across Scotland, with a regional winner representing
each local authority. Every finalist performed their joke live before an audience
of MSPs, families, and supporters.
The event followed a nationwide call for entries that saw thousands of jokes submitted
by pupils from hundreds of primary schools.
VoiceBox was created by the RCSLT to spotlight the importance of early speech, language
and communication development and the power of speech and language therapy. While
rooted in fun, the competition’s purpose is to raise awareness of the vital role
communication plays in a child’s confidence, learning, and life outcomes.
Ezra Pasifull, Primary Three, from Oakbank Primary School in Perth and Kinross, was
crowned Scotland’s funniest young comedian after leaving MSPs in stitches.
The winning joke, delivered with confidence and impeccable timing, was: "I bought
10 bees but the beekeeper gave me 11 bees. I asked him why there is an extra bee
and he said, because that one’s a 'Free Bee!'
Christopher’s joke was: “What do you call a fake noodle? An impasta!”
He has secured £100 worth of Collins Big Cat books for his school as a prize.
Glenn Carter, Head of RCSLT Scotland, said: “While the event is full of joy and laughter,
its purpose is serious. Speech, language and communication are essential skills that
underpin a child’s learning, relationships, and long-term opportunities. VoiceBox
shines a light on this by showing just what children can achieve when they’re supported
to express themselves.”
Western Isles youngster has MSPs in stitches at Scottish joke-telling contest
8 June 2025