At St Paul's C of E Primary School, we recognise that strong speaking and listening skills are essential to children's success both in school and beyond. Oracy plays a crucial role in supporting literacy development and helps pupils deepen their understanding across all areas of the curriculum. As a school, we place a strong emphasis on effective communication and attentive listening, with these high standards promoted by all members of our school community.

From the Early Years through to Year 6, opportunities for purposeful talk are embedded throughout everyday learning. We create language-rich classrooms where pupils are encouraged to share ideas, ask questions, and engage in meaningful discussions. Through a carefully planned progression of oracy skills, children develop the confidence and ability to communicate with a range of audiences and for different purposes.

Our aim is to nurture articulate, thoughtful and self-assured learners who can express themselves clearly, listen respectfully to others and use their speaking skills effectively both inside and outside the classroom. We have signed up to work with Voice 21 to support our oracy journey.

Teaching Oracy

At St Paul's C of E Primary School, the teaching of oracy is built around the four key elements of the Oracy Framework:

• Physical – developing effective communication through the use of voice, expression, eye contact and body language.

• Linguistic – using appropriate vocabulary and language structures to communicate ideas clearly and accurately.

• Cognitive – maintaining focus, considering different viewpoints, asking thoughtful questions and explaining ideas with clear reasoning.

• Social and Emotional – building confidence, working collaboratively, listening actively and responding appropriately to others.