The ability to listen actively, speak clearly and communicate articulately is seen as a fundamental part of the learning process. Oracy underpins the development of reading and writing, and is key to progress in all subjects.

At St Anne's we encourage effective communication skills, good oracy leads to higher thinking and deeper understanding. We strive to develop oracy skills through the curriculum, lunchtimes, extra-curricular activities and the whole school ethos of the school.

What is Oracy?

Oracy is the ability to express yourself clearly and communicate with others effectively through spoken langauge. A key part of oracy is for children to think carefully about the language they're using, and tailor it to their subject, purpose and audience.

The National Curriculum reflects the importance of spoken language in pupils' development. 

Pupils participate in a wide range of oracy activities which help them develop the confidence in spoken language. These include:

• Partner talk
• Group discussion
• Collaborative work and problem solving
• Debate
• Presentations
• Drama
• Role play

There are opportunities for children to develop their oracy skills outside of the curriculum. This is achieved through pupil voice groups, productions, assemblies, visiting speakers, topic events and participation in hub and local events.

The Oracy Framework

The framework, which has been developed by The University of Cambridge and Voice 21, breaks oracy into four strands.

• Physical
• Cognitive
• Linguistic
• Social and Emotional

The four strands enable successful discussion, inspiring speech and effective communication. The framework enables teachers to assess progress and encourages the children to self-assess, peer-assess and talk about talk.