Oracy and Disadvantage: Developing Voice, Participation and Equity
Relevant to Middle Leaders, Heads of Department, Subject Leaders, Teachers.
Description
This three-session programme explores how oracy can support learning, participation and educational equity across the KS2–KS3 phase. Drawing on research and classroom practice, it supports teachers to understand how talk develops, how it can be taught explicitly, and how it can be assessed meaningfully.
With a focus on disadvantaged learners, the programme invites participants to reflect on how classroom talk can either widen or reduce inequalities. A central question underpins all sessions: Who gets heard in our classrooms, and who does not?
Session 1: Understanding Oracy
Develop a shared understanding of oracy and its role in learning, identity and participation. Explore key frameworks and reflect on barriers and opportunities for equitable classroom talk.
Session 2: Teaching Oracy
Focus on practical strategies to explicitly teach and scaffold spoken language, including modelling, structured discussion and rehearsal, with a focus on inclusion.
Session 3:Assessing and Embedding Oracy
Explore approaches to assessing oracy and develop strategies for embedding it across classroom, curriculum and whole-school practice.
Programme Impact
- Strengthen understanding of oracy and its role in learning.
- Apply practical strategies to improve classroom talk.
- Reflect on participation through an equity lens.
- Develop an action plan to embed oracy in their setting.