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Developing oracy in KS1 and KS2

16 Oct 2025

9:30am - 3:30pm

Bothal Primary School
Wansbeck Road
Ashington
Northumberland
NE63 8HZ

£195

Developing oracy KS1 & 2 graphic

Find the booking form at the end of this page.

Oracy is vital to primary literacy and a lever for social mobility.

As a communication skill, it is also foundational to reading and writing. Children who struggle with spoken language at age five are six times more likely to fall below the expected level in reading and writing at age 11 – as evidenced in our new policy report: Creating confident communicators: How the government can help every child find their voice.

To give children the best start in school and life, oracy must be considered integral to teaching literacy in KS1 and KS2.

Cognitive gains associated with effective spoken communication skills include improved attainment in traditional subject learning; literacy skills; cognitive reasoning; [and the] transfer of comprehension and reasoning skills to other subjects.”

Oracy Cambridge, evidence to APPG oracy inquiry

At this workshop, English language teachers and literacy leads will explore the evidence base for oracy. You will develop an understanding of why explicit teaching of speaking and listening should form part of the language and literacy curriculum, while also ensuring that it is integrated into wider learning. You will leave the session equipped with strategies for supporting speaking and listening in the classroom.

  • Explore research, theory and principles of exploratory talk and active listening
  • Explore the role of speaking and listening in academic achievement and social mobility
  • Develop pedagogical strategies, with a focus on book talk
  • Explore the roles and responsibilities involved in developing oracy in our classrooms and across the school
  • Evaluate current provision and practice
  • Gain insights into how to support pupils with additional needs

"The average impact of oral language interventions is approximately an additional six months’ progress over the course of a year. Approaches that focus on speaking, listening and a combination of the two all show positive impacts on attainment."

EEF

Training format

This training consists of two separate, complementary sessions. Participants must engage with both.

  • Part 1: Before the in-person session, you'll receive access to a pre-recorded webinar introducing key concepts.
  • Part 2: An in-person session at Bothal Primary School on Thursday 16 October from 9.30 - 15.30 allowing for deeper exploration and discussion. Lunch will be provided.

Cost

  • £195 for a single booking
  • £150 for additional colleagues.
  • National Literacy Trust premium members receive a £25 discount per school.

Please contact Ruth King via ruth.king@literacytrust.org.uk if you require a discount code or if you have any questions.

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