Independent Oracy Commission calls for oracy to be prioritised as the fourth 'R' for young people

The Independent Commission on the Future of Oracy Education in England, which is supported by Impetus, has published its report, calling for oracy to be prioritised as the fourth 'R' for young people.

The Commission’s report, We Need to Talk states that learning to, through and about talk is key to the preparation of children as future citizens. It brought together leading educationalists, creative leaders, academics and business representatives, to listen, learn and formulate a plan for speaking, listening and communication in schools.

Chaired by Geoff Barton, former General Secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL), the Commission calls for:

  • Teachers to be give high quality training on oracy education
  • Teachers to be given guidance on effective oracy practice based on evidence of what works and how
  • Children to be given an entitlement to oracy education throughout primary and secondary schooling

As sponsors of the report, and supporters of Voice 21 for five years, Impetus believes that oracy skills are a driver of attainment outcomes for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Steven Haines, Director of Public Affairs at Impetus said:

Alongside its importance for preparing young people as future citizens, oracy is a key driver of attainment outcomes for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. This report marks a crucial step in providing a shared definition, and oven-ready policy proposals to embed oracy across the curriculum.

We know that young people from disadvantaged backgrounds are more likely to be behind their more advantaged peers in developing early language and speech skills, with far-reaching implications for attainment, mental health, and even employment in later life.

The Labour government should take this opportunity to narrow this persistent and pernicious attainment gap, so that all young people are equipped to succeed in school, work and life.

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