What is oracy?
Oracy is the ability to express oneself fluently in speech. It involves a range of skills such as speaking clearly, listening actively, engaging in discussions, presenting ideas effectively, and interpreting others’ viewpoints.
In October 2024, the Commission on the Future of Oracy Education in England released a landmark report: We Need to Talk. It argued that “alongside reading, writing and arithmetic, oracy is the fourth ‘R’: an essential, foundational building block to support our young people on their journey towards living fulfilling adult lives.”
First News recently held a free webinar for teachers, parents and guardians focused on boosting these skills in and out of the classroom. We had a record attendance with over 460 people joining us. Hosted by Helen Mulley (Education Lead), we heard from panellists Amanda Moorghen (Head of Impact and Research at Voice 21) and Abbi Bansropun (teacher). When asked what is one change they’d like to see to improve children’s oracy, Amanda responded, “an oracy lead in every school”; Abbi said “it needs to become a clear priority for the DfE”, and Helen said “every child should have a trusted source of news, and a safe space where they can talk about it”.
Why is it important?
Oracy skills are essential for success across the curriculum, and beyond it in everyday life. Children’s wellbeing suffers when they can’t articulate how they are feeling. Engagement with learning drops when they can’t express their curiosity and their ideas become lost if they can’t translate them into words, to share with others.
As they get older, young people with poor oracy are increasingly disadvantaged when it comes to high-stakes exam outcomes, work experience, job interviews and personal or professional satisfaction.
How can you support oracy at home?
1. Spark conversation with First News
Every week in our subscribers newsletter we include conversation starters based on key highlights in the paper. Use these to help spark conversation at home and encourage kids to explain and develop their answers, rather than using just ‘yes’ or ‘no’.
2. Ask about the best part of their day
Encourage kids to articulate their day and practice active listening. Asking open-ended questions like, “What was the best part of your day?” helps them reflect and express themselves more clearly. Make sure to listen attentively, ask follow-up questions, and engage in meaningful discussions.
3. Read together and discuss
Reading books or articles together and discussing them afterward can be a great way to boost oracy. Ask your child questions about the story or topic, and encourage them to share their opinions or predictions. This helps them develop their speaking and comprehension skills.
Find out more!
To read more insightful pieces that could be discussed with your children, visit the Talking Points section of our website.
Find out all the ways you can access First News at home and at school!
