The Importance of Oracy: Building Confidence and Connection Through Spoken Language

You may have seen in the papers this week a curriculum review has been published and high on the agenda is a renewed focus on oracy. In today’s rapidly evolving world, where communication is key to personal and professional success, oracy—the ability to express oneself fluently and grammatically in speech—has emerged as a vital skill. While literacy and numeracy often take precedence in educational settings, the value of spoken language skills is equally profound. Oracy helps individuals articulate their thoughts with clarity and confidence, enabling them to participate fully in society.

One of the primary benefits of oracy lies in its power to build confidence. From classroom discussions to workplace presentations, being able to speak clearly fosters self-assurance and reduces anxiety in social and public situations. This confidence empowers individuals to share their ideas, advocate for themselves, and engage in meaningful dialogue.

Oracy also plays a critical role in developing critical thinking and social skills. Through effective speaking and active listening, individuals learn to consider alternative viewpoints, question assumptions, and collaborate with others. These skills lay the foundation for teamwork, leadership, and empathy—qualities increasingly essential in a globalised world.

Moreover, oracy contributes significantly to academic and career success. Students with strong verbal communication skills often demonstrate better comprehension and engagement, as speaking encourages deeper learning and retention. In the professional realm, employers consistently value candidates who can communicate ideas effectively and adapt their language to different audiences.

In essence, oracy is more than just the ability to talk; it is a fundamental aspect of human connection and agency. By prioritising spoken language development alongside reading and writing, educators and leaders can help cultivate articulate, confident, and compassionate communicators—prepared to thrive in every aspect of life.

Oracy is, of course, at the heart of what we do here at RM Drama, so we are of course passionate promoters of it's importance. We take great satisfaction in our work from the absolute belief that by coaching oracy we are providing our students with the building blocks for success in later life.