At Newton Burgoland Primary School, we believe that spoken language is fundamental to learning, thinking and building strong relationships. Oracy enables children to express themselves clearly, communicate confidently and engage thoughtfully with the world around them. We recognise that the ability to speak and listen effectively is essential for academic success, personal wellbeing and future employment.

Through high-quality classroom discussion, collaborative learning and purposeful talk, pupils learn to develop and articulate their ideas, build on the views of others and communicate with confidence and respect.

We teach children the skills required for effective communication, including active listening, appropriate body language, vocabulary development, turn-taking, reasoning and discussion. Pupils are encouraged to speak audibly and clearly, adapting their language for different audiences and purposes.

Oracy plays an important role in developing confidence, curiosity and critical thinking. As children learn to explain their thinking and justify their opinions, they deepen their understanding of new concepts and become more reflective learners. We want all pupils to feel empowered to contribute their ideas, ask questions and participate fully in discussions, regardless of their starting point.

Through assemblies, performances, presentations, pupil leadership opportunities and collaborative learning experiences, children develop the confidence to speak in front of others and the resilience to express their views respectfully, even when challenged.

As pupils progress through the school, they become increasingly skilled communicators who can listen carefully, think critically and engage respectfully with a wide range of perspectives. These skills prepare them not only for secondary education but also for life as thoughtful, compassionate and active citizens.

Oracy Knowledge Progression

Our carefully sequenced approach to oracy enables children to develop their communication skills year on year. Pupils build confidence in speaking, listening, discussion, presentation and debate, learning how to communicate effectively in a range of contexts. Through structured opportunities to practise and refine these skills, children become articulate, respectful and self-assured communicators who are able to express themselves with clarity and purpose.