Oracy
We believe that we have to learn to talk and this really shapes how strong our reading and writing can be.
Oracy Intent Statement
At the Federation of Bursledon Schools, our intent is to transform the learning and life chances of every child through the power of talk. We believe that oracy is fundamental to academic success, personal growth and social inclusion. By embedding oracy into our pedagogy and the Bursledon Teaching Sequence, we ensure that children learn to talk and learn through talk.
Our oracy curriculum is designed to:
- Empower every child to find and use their voice with confidence
- Promote academic achievement through purposeful, structured talk
- Foster social confidence, collaboration, and inclusion
- Close the communication gap by explicitly teaching speaking and listening skills
Through high expectations, inclusive practices, and a commitment to valuing every voice, we aim to develop articulate, thoughtful, and effective communicators who are equipped for lifelong success.
Our Vision
Oracy at The Federation of Bursledon Schools
At the Federation of Bursledon Schools, we are dedicated to developing confident, articulate communicators. We believe that every child should be given meaningful opportunities to express themselves across a range of contexts, using clear and confident speech, while also learning the value of active listening and collaborative dialogue.
Language development and vocabulary enrichment are at the heart of our curriculum. We aim to strengthen oracy skills throughout all year groups, enabling children to communicate their thoughts, feelings and ideas with clarity and assurance. Our approach is underpinned by the four key strands of oracy: Physical, Cognitive, Linguistic, and Social & Emotional. These strands guide the explicit teaching of speaking and listening skills, helping our pupils become effective communicators and enhancing their learning across the curriculum.
In every classroom, we strive to ensure that:
- High expectations for oracy are embedded in everyday practice
- Every voice is heard, respected, and valued
- Oracy is used as a powerful tool to deepen understanding and learning
- Speaking and listening skills are explicitly taught, modelled, and celebrated
What is Oracy?
Oracy is all about talking and listening well. It’s the skill of speaking clearly, listening carefully, and joining in meaningful conversations. Whether it’s telling a story, asking or answering a question, or sharing an idea, oracy helps children become confident communicators — in the classroom and beyond.
We believe that every child’s voice matters, and we give them the tools to use it.
Why Does Oracy Matter?
Strong oracy skills help children to:
- Think deeply and explain their ideas.
- Work well with others through discussion and teamwork.
- Grow in confidence when speaking in front of others.
- Succeed across the curriculum, from reading and writing to maths and science.
In a world where communication is key, oracy gives children a head start - not just in school, but in life.
From the moment children join us in Reception, we create a rich, talk-filled environment where every child is encouraged to speak, listen, and share.
We use tools like talk partners and visual prompts to support every child: making sure they feel heard, understood and confident to speak up.
Every Voice Counts
Oracy isn’t just a subject - it’s part of everything we do. Whether children are solving problems in maths, exploring stories in English, or working together in science, they’re learning to communicate with clarity, empathy, and purpose.
We’re proud to help our pupils become thoughtful speakers, active listeners, and kind collaborators.
How to help your child improve their Oracy at home.
1. Share a Story Together
Reading aloud with your child—even once they can read independently—builds valuable speaking and listening skills. It helps children learn new vocabulary, hear how language works, and develop confidence in expressing their own ideas.
2. Create a Video Diary
Encourage your child to record short video diaries about their day or special events. This is a fun way to practise speaking clearly and organising their thoughts. For safety, keep recordings private within the family.
3. Play Talking Games
Simple games like 20 Questions, Guess Who? or I Spy are great for developing descriptive language and encouraging children to think carefully about how they communicate.
4. Chat About the Day
Instead of asking “What did you do today?”, try more specific questions like:
- “Who did you play with?”
- “What was the most interesting thing you learned?”
Family mealtimes are a great opportunity for conversation, and some children find it easier to talk during relaxed moments like car journeys.
5. Stay Connected with Family
Encourage your child to talk to relatives on the phone or through video calls. Speaking to different people helps build confidence and strengthens communication skills.
6. Explore and Talk Outdoors
Go for a walk and encourage your child to listen carefully to sounds around them—such as birds or traffic—and describe what they notice. Talking about what they see and hear helps develop vocabulary and observation skills.
