05 December 2025 - Oracy Development

5th December 2025

Dear Parents and Carers,

Oracy Skill Development Next Steps

Below is an update on Orchard School Bristol’s next steps in developing oracy across our community. We hope this helps you understand what oracy is, why it matters, and how we will continue to support students with developing their oracy skills so that they can reach their potential in all aspects of their lives.

What Is Oracy?

Oracy refers to the ability to speak and listen effectively. It includes skills such as articulating ideas clearly, building on others’ contributions, asking thoughtful questions, and communicating confidently in different situations. Just as literacy and numeracy are taught, oracy is a skill that can be developed through consistent practice.

Why Developing Oracy Skills Matters

Strong oracy skills are linked to improved confidence, deeper understanding in learning, and better outcomes both in school and beyond. Being able to express ideas clearly helps students develop critical thinking, collaborate with others, and engage actively in lessons. Good spoken language skills also support wellbeing, self-esteem, and positive relationships.

What We Have Done So Far: Turn and Talk

This year, we have introduced a strategy called Turn and Talk across classrooms. This involves students briefly discussing a question or idea with a partner before feeding back to the class or writing down their ideas.
We use Turn and Talk because it increases participation, supports students with their learning, and creates a safe learning environment where everyone has the opportunity to share and develop their ideas. Teachers have already noticed students’ improved confidence, clearer explanations, and greater readiness to share ideas. We are so proud of our students for this.

Next Steps: Using Turn and Talk before Extended Writing or Numeracy to Encourage Use of Full Sentences

Our next focus is to use Turn and Talk more deliberately before extended writing and numeracy tasks. Talking through ideas helps students organise their thinking, clarify understanding, and develop stronger vocabulary. When students rehearse their sentences out loud, the quality of their writing improves. By embedding structured talk across subjects, we aim to further strengthen both spoken language and written outcomes, supporting success in GCSE examinations and in life beyond school.

We remain committed to developing students’ communication skills so they can thrive now and in the future. We are extremely proud of their resilience and determination in building these vital skills.

Thank you for your continued support as we develop a strong oracy culture at Orchard School Bristol. If you have any questions, please get in touch.

Yours sincerely,

Miss Isobel Eddy, Assistant Headteacher

ieddy@orchard.tila.school