Valerie attends Oracy APPG inquiry launch

Valerie said:

Life in Parliament is a constant reminder of the importance of being able to share your opinion, argue effectively, listen and be listened to and we must do more to support children and young people in Walsall to develop these skills. I am convinced of the vital importance of empowering every child to have the confidence and skills to speak eloquently and communicate effectively in order for them to succeed in their learning, in the job market and in engaging in our democracy, which is why I am supporting the Speak for Change Inquiry.

At an event to launch an inquiry into how oracy is overlooked in education, hosted by Chair of the Oracy APPG Emma Hardy MP, I met children from School 21 in Stratford who interviewed me on the importance of oracy, shared their opinions on the subject and demonstrated their own skills. You can find out more about the APPG here.

New research suggests that efforts to close the privilege gap are at a standstill and children who have poor language and communication skills at age five are six times less likely to reach the expected standard in English at age 11 and twice as likely to be unemployed aged 34.

The ability to communicate effectively using spoken language, oracy, is a skill which needs to be taught effectively in schools if today’s children are to be able to reach their potentials.