Oracy has gained prominence as a key education priority during the general election campaign. The Labour Party manifesto promises to embed speaking into the education system as an essential skill and recognises the importance of helping every child to find their voice. The Liberal Democrat manifesto also includes verbal reasoning education as part of their commitment to broaden the curriculum. This focus puts oracy at the heart of the national conversation about education policy.

Voice 21 CEO, Dr Kate Paradine, said: “I would like to thank our Voice 21 Oracy Schools for their vital role in increasing awareness of the power of oracy education. We believe that schools have the power to change a child’s life and create a fairer society. Earlier this academic year, eight of our schools hosted Members of Parliament to visit and see how they provide a high-quality oracy education to set students up for success in school and life. MPs and Peers across parties have contributed so much to the All Party Parliamentary Group on Oracy over the years, laying the groundwork for oracy to be at the heart of the national conversation about education policy during this election period.”

Voice 21 has been overwhelmed by the support oracy has received during this election campaign and will continue to campaign until a high-quality oracy education is part of every child’s school experience.