Information for schools

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We believe that every child has a unique voice and a story worth sharing. 

As a broad and inclusive partnership spanning the maintained and independent sectors, we recognise the benefits that a range of voices and perspectives bring to our community. This diversity not only strengthens our programme, but also enriches the learning experiences of all involved. 

We ensure that every school, regardless of its financial situation, has the opportunity to benefit from this transformative experience. Our funding model means that, through the contributions of independent schools, there are no costs of participation for schools in the maintained sector.

In partnership with Speakers Trust, the UK's largest public speaking training charity, we deliver public speaking and oracy training to teachers and pupils every year, resulting in significant benefits inside and outside the classroom.

It all begins with the teachers. By equipping teachers with the skills and confidence to deliver workshops in their own classrooms, our programme creates a lasting legacy, enhancing staff competency and directly supporting whole-school oracy strategies.

Partner schools receive comprehensive resources, materials, and guidance to deliver the workshops successfully. Throughout the programme, schools are provided with ongoing support to ensure the best possible outcomes for teachers and pupils.

 Each year, over 500 Year 6 pupils take up the challenge. The top two speakers from each school advance to the Grand Final, where they present their speeches before a panel of distinguished judges and an audience of friends, family, and teachers. Only one can be crowned the Speak Up Champion!

To reach this stage, each school hosts its own Speak Up Assembly, showcasing their best speakers who compete for a chance to be finalists. These assemblies provide an opportunity for the entire school to learn from the experiences and perspectives of their peers.

For the rest of the pupils, these events create a clear goal to work towards, inspiring them to refine their oracy skills, build confidence, and appreciate the power of effective communication.

We are committed to reviewing and measuring the impact of our programme, and take feedback from pupils and teachers every year. This data powerfully illustrates the impact of our partnership, with significant gains recorded in confidence, self-advocacy and fostering a deeper sense of connection amongst peers.

Teachers report enhanced engagement across subjects, while schools see a rise in public speaking participation and a stronger culture of oracy.

Our program not only empowers individual students but also enriches the entire school community by fostering an environment where every voice is valued.