Oracy in Education: Why Speaking Skills Matter More Than Maths 2026

Oracy in education is gaining momentum as experts argue that speaking skills are more crucial than traditional maths for children's future success. In a world dominated by screens and artificial intelligence, the ability to communicate effectively face-to-face is becoming increasingly rare and valuable. The UK's education secretary, Lucy Powell, recently called for a radical reform of the national curriculum in England to reduce "desktop" working in favour of verbal fluency and practical skills. This shift acknowledges that for decades, education has prioritized easily measurable subjects like maths and French, often at the expense of essential communication skills.

Why Oracy Deserves a Place in the Curriculum

Oracy, the ability to express oneself fluently and grammatically in speech, is fundamental to human interaction. Yet, it has been sidelined in favor of written exams and league tables. The current system emphasizes rote learning and exam quantification, which often fails to prepare students for real-world challenges. By integrating oracy into the curriculum, we can equip children with the skills to articulate their thoughts, engage in meaningful conversations, and collaborate effectively.

Moreover, the rise of AI and mobile phones has led to a decline in face-to-face communication. Young people are increasingly isolated behind screens, missing out on the nuances of verbal and non-verbal communication. Teaching oracy can counteract this trend, fostering empathy, critical thinking, and social cohesion.

The Benefits of Prioritizing Speaking Skills

• Enhanced Communication: Students learn to express ideas clearly and confidently.
• Improved Employability: Verbal fluency is highly valued by employers across all sectors.
• Stronger Relationships: Effective communication builds trust and understanding.
• Critical Thinking: Articulating thoughts verbally sharpens reasoning and argumentation.
• Active Citizenship: Oracy empowers individuals to participate in democratic processes.

Comparing Traditional Maths and Oracy in Education

While maths is essential for numeracy and problem-solving, its practical application in daily life is often limited for many students. In contrast, oracy skills are used every day, in every interaction. The table below highlights key differences between the two subjects in terms of real-world relevance and skill development.

While both subjects have value, the overemphasis on maths at the expense of oracy has left many students ill-prepared for the communication demands of the modern world.

Challenges and Opportunities for Education Reform

Implementing oracy-focused reforms will not be easy. It requires a shift in mindset among educators, policymakers, and parents. Assessment methods must evolve to capture verbal skills, and teacher training must include strategies for fostering classroom dialogue. However, the potential benefits are immense. Countries like Finland and Singapore have already integrated communication skills into their curricula with positive results.

Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of human connection. As students return to classrooms, there is a renewed opportunity to prioritize speaking and listening skills. By doing so, we can create a more holistic education system that values the whole child, not just their test scores.

FAQ

In conclusion, the call to prioritize oracy in education is a call to prepare our children for the real world. By valuing speaking skills alongside traditional subjects, we can nurture confident, articulate, and empathetic individuals ready to thrive in an interconnected world.