ESU Oracy Action Research programme
The ESU’s second Oracy Action Research programme, in association with academics from the University of Sussex’s Speaking Citizen project, is underway. We are working with 24 schools to support them to develop their own oracy research programme, contributing to the ‘what works’ practical evidence base around oracy education. Schools will report their findings in the autumn of 2024, at our Oracy Research Conference on Friday 8 November. Find out more.
Why Oracy Matters
Our Why Oracy Matters report is the ESU’s latest contribution to the wider evidence base around oracy. Commissioned by the ESU and authored by Dr Jonathan Doherty, this report synthesises the evidence base and case for oracy across a range of disciplines. It is also packed with tangible take-aways, hints, tips and ideas for teachers to embed oracy into their everyday practice. We hope that this report is an excellent one-stop-shop for research and educators, helping them to make evidence-informed decisions about the oracy education happening in their settings.
The case for oracy is strong. A good oracy education has positive impact across educational attainment, school readiness, social mobility and into employment prospects. This report not only highlights the latest research in the field, but brings together some of the current models of oracy education, including the ESU’s Four Key Skillsets, to demonstrate what is already working. By supporting teachers to be reflective in their own practice, the report also supports professional development and confidence for teaching staff – something we know is vitally needed.
Download the report to find out more. The ESU is also able to provide further support and guidance for schools looking to develop their oracy practice via our programmes.
Oracy Research Conference
The ESU are hosting our second annual Oracy Research Conference on Friday 8 November at Dartmouth House. In this one-day event, we will share some of the latest oracy research from leading experts in the field and hear about what schools are doing in their classrooms to develop their oracy practice. With keynotes from leading speakers, and sessions from ESU Oracy Action Research schools, we look forward to connecting with many colleagues and practitioners.
The full schedule and free tickets are available here
For more information contact [email protected]
Walter Hines Page Scholarship
Entering its 101st year in 2024, the English-Speaking Union’s Walter Hines Page scholarships enable UK teaching professionals to travel to America to research an oracy or communication project of their choosing that can also help inform our own work in this field. Scholars report their findings which are shared nationally and internationally.
Applications for 2025/26 are now open and will close on Monday, 24 February 2025. ?Find out more and apply.
Speaking Frankly
Published in 2016, Speaking Frankly is a collection of essays by teachers, academics and educational thinkers on the importance of oracy in education. A useful resource for anyone new to oracy education, or looking to develop their knowledge
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