This course will:
• Consider key messages from recent reports from Ofsted and the Oracy Commission.
• Examine the three key elements of effective oracy: learning to talk, learning through talk, learning about talk.
• Consider the foundations which need to be in place for effective speaking and listening to take place.
• Signpost support for pupils who may have speech, language and communication needs.
• Have a range of practical strategies for integrating speaking, listening and communication into every subject across the curriculum, as well as in extra-curricular activities.

Oracy underpins the most effective teaching and learning and in March 2024, the Ofsted subject report on English stated the importance of pupils learning how to become competent speakers. This was reinforced in October 2024 when a new report by the Oracy Commission on the Future of Oracy Education in England said that "…in order to prepare young people for their future, oracy should be the fourth “R” of education – of equal status to reading, writing and arithmetic."

In that report, the Commission calls for:
• increased emphasis on oracy education to better prepare all young people to become fulfilled future citizens and combat increasing polarisation and misinformation;
• recognition of the essential role of oracy as a building block for reading, writing and pupils’ academic progression through school;
• acknowledgement of the rising importance of oracy skills in a labour market transformed by AI to ensure young people are well-prepared for success in the workplace

This course will reflect on the above and delegates will leave with a range of practical strategies which can be implemented the next day.