At Lockers Park, we believe that confident communication is a foundation for future success. We give every boy the opportunity to develop strong oracy skills – the ability to speak with clarity, confidence and eloquence. Our approach supports academic learning, strengthens social skills and helps pupils become articulate, thoughtful communicators.
Speaking with Confidence in the Classroom
Oracy is embedded in our everyday teaching. Pupils are encouraged to:
- Explain their thinking
- Ask questions
- Challenge ideas respectfully
- Build arguments
- Reflect on their learning aloud
Teachers create a supportive atmosphere where boys feel comfortable sharing ideas, making mistakes and exploring new concepts through spoken language.
Opportunities to Speak Beyond the Classroom
Communication extends far beyond lessons. We provide a wealth of opportunities for boys to develop their public-speaking skills across school life, ensuring that oracy becomes a natural and enjoyable part of their personal development.
Annual Poetry Competition
Our annual poetry competition empowers all boys to perform a poem of their choice – or one they have written themselves – in front of an audience of parents and boys and is assessed by an external professional. The competition:
- Builds memory and expressive skills
- Encourages creativity
- Boosts confidence
- Helps boys understand rhythm, tone and pace in spoken performance
Debating: Building Persuasive Thinkers
Our thriving Debating Club, held after school, gives boys the chance to practise reasoning, persuasion and quick thinking. Pupils explore current issues, work in teams and learn how to present compelling arguments.
The school also runs an annual Balloon Debate, a fun and lively event where boys adopt the role of a famous character and argue why they should remain in the metaphorical balloon. This popular competition develops:
- Clear argument structure
- Creative thinking
- Confident public speaking
- The ability to think on one’s feet
These experiences help pupils grow into persuasive and respectful speakers.
LAMDA Lessons: Professional Training in Communication
We are proud to offer LAMDA (London Academy of Music & Dramatic Art) group lessons on site. These sessions develop:
- Speaking with clarity and modulation: use of pitch, pace, pause, phrasing, inflection and tone
- Assuming a character
- Understanding a text and empathising with a character
- Developing confidence and projection
Boys work towards LAMDA examinations, earning nationally recognised qualifications that recognise their growing confidence and skill.
Preparing Boys for Life Beyond School
Our comprehensive approach to oracy ensures that every boy develops the confidence to express himself clearly, listen attentively and participate fully in school life. These skills support academic success, strengthen self-esteem and prepare boys for interviews, leadership opportunities and future education.
At our school, every boy finds his voice – and learns how to use it with confidence and purpose.
