Meridian High School accredited as Oracy Centre of Excellence

Meridian High School has been accredited as an Oracy Centre of Excellence by national oracy charity, Voice 21, for its work developing students’ speaking and listening skills.

Voice 21 work with around 1000 schools, and Meridian was one of only twenty four chosen to have their oracy achievements recognised with this “gold standard” accreditation.

As a Voice 21 Oracy Centre of Excellence, Meridian will support other schools in the community and across the country, showcasing how oracy teaching can impact their students’ future education and employment opportunities.

Oracy has been shown to be as important as reading and numeracy in improving life outcomes for children and has been recognised in the Labour Party and Liberal Democrat manifestos as being at the heart of the education policy.

Amy Anderson, Headteacher says “The ability to express oneself clearly and effectively through speech, is a vital skill for students' personal and academic growth. In school, oracy helps students develop essential communication skills like active listening, persuasive speaking, and clear articulation. For disadvantaged students, it can be a powerful tool to build confidence, enabling them to participate fully in classroom discussions and express their ideas. Mastering oracy not only enhances academic performance but also equips students with the verbal skills needed for success in future careers and life, fostering self-assurance and opening doors to new opportunities.”

Gemma Papworth, whole school Oracy Lead says ‘"Oracy is so important for our young people as the power it has to elevate their success both in school and within their futures will enable them to have the best life chances which they deserve. If they can articulate their ideas and show how valuable their voices are, they will find doors opening for them that they never believed could have existed. Oracy is an incredibly powerful tool in making our students heard."

Evan, Head Boy and Oracy Champion said “Working on specific oracy skills has made me more confident in every day speaking, public speaking and when presenting to different audiences such as visitors. I think communication skills are vital for my future and will support me in becoming successful.”

Dr Kate Paradine, CEO at Voice 21, says: “The Voice 21 Oracy Centre of Excellence award certifies and celebrates schools who are changing the way they educate. Meridian High School has demonstrated the quality of oracy education being provided across five areas of school life; their school’s vision, culture, curriculum, learning and impact on students. This “whole school” approach is at the heart of what it means to offer a high-quality oracy education”