Oracy South

Every Voice Matters, Every Voice Heard 

In classrooms across the south of England—and indeed the world—teachers are finding new ways to nurture the skills their pupils need to succeed in today’s dynamic and fast-changing world. Reading, writing, and arithmetic are vital, of course, but a fourth ‘R’ is poised to be added to that list to develop how children think, learn, and connect: oracy. 

At its heart, oracy is the ability to express thoughts, ideas, and emotions clearly through spoken language. It’s about more than just speaking—it’s about communicating effectively, listening actively, and engaging meaningfully. But why is oracy so important? And how can we, as teachers and educators, ensure that it is prioritised alongside other essential skills? 

Why Oracy Matters 

Developing oracy in children isn’t just about equipping them with the tools to deliver a presentation or participate in a debate (although these are fantastic outcomes!). It’s about much more than that: 

• Confidence and Self-Belief: When children feel confident in their ability to express themselves, their self-esteem flourishes. They become more willing to contribute in class and share their ideas with peers. 

• Critical Thinking and Learning: Talking helps children to organize their thoughts, deepen their understanding, and reflect on what they’ve learned. Oracy is thinking made visible. 

• Collaboration and Community: From team projects to whole-school initiatives, effective communication strengthens relationships and fosters a sense of belonging. 

• Life-Long Skills: Whether they’re on the playground, in the classroom, or later in a job interview, oracy gives children the tools to navigate the world confidently. 

Let’s Unlock the Power of Speech 

Imagine your pupils confidently delivering persuasive arguments, presenting innovative ideas, or engaging in meaningful discussions. Picture a classroom where every child feels heard, valued, and empowered to speak their truth. This isn’t just a dream—it’s the reality that effective oracy teaching can create. 

As educators, we have the power to help every child find their voice. Oracy South, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Let’s work together to nurture a generation of confident, articulate thinkers who are ready to make their mark on the world. 

Get Involved!
If you’re ready to join a vibrant community of educators and take your oracy teaching to new heights, we’d love to hear from you. Whether you’re looking for resources, ideas, or a supportive network, Oracy South is here for you. 

Let’s empower the young voices of tomorrow—starting today.