Aspire
Aspire is our Young Voices Programme key stage 3 offer which supports young people in year 9 with the oracy skills they need to express themselves, advocate, lead, influence and make a difference.
Key stage 3 is an often-overlooked period yet a pivotal stage in early adolescence, when young people face important educational and emotional transitions while also beginning to shape their future pathways. At this point they must now also prepare for greater civic responsibility, with new voting rights lowering to the age of 16 from 2026.
The transition from primary to secondary school is also challenging and we often see a drop off in young people’s confidence and engagement with literacy, spanning reading, writing, speaking and listening.
About the project
Across six weeks, students participate in teacher-led workshops to build core oracy skills like listening and responding, critical thinking, questioning and communicating effectively with others.
They will explore themes such as identity, role models, community and citizenship and then apply their skills by designing a community action project in small groups. The programme culminates in an exciting Citizens Day, where they share their projects with an audience and with a real purpose.
These sessions are structured to mirror real world dynamics, helping young people to develop skills that support teamwork, discussion, problem-solving and effective communication in a practical context.
What teachers are saying
"My students, and hundreds of others, would benefit so much from the opportunity to develop these skills through real life experiences, which would empower them to be better communicators, not just in school, but for the rest of their lives. "
English Teacher, Greig City Academy
“Aspire will be transformative for students who feel shy or nervous about speaking in public.”
Head of Literacy, Harris Academy Bermondsey
Aspire has four main objectives
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Develop core oracy skills to become confident communicators
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Empower young people to find their voice and be confident self-advocates
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Engage young people with their future and wider society
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Inspire young people to achieve their aspirations
What will the project include?
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An Aspire toolkit
Full of high-quality books, non-fiction texts, oracy activities and accompanying digital resources.
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Citizens Day
A celebration event held at your school or at an exciting local venue in your community.
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Oracy teacher training
Alongside additional Aspire programmatic training.
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Membership
To the National Literacy Trust, providing access to premium teaching resources for a year.
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Volunteer engagement
With local professionals and inspiring members of the community.
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Project support
Throughout the delivery from the Young Voices Programme team.
How to get involved
Complete the form below to hear more about the programme and to express your interest in taking part.