Spoken language in schools, now often branded as oracy, is seeing something of a resurgence of interest. This is well-founded and to be welcomed. Nevertheless, the policy-level coopting of oracy, as a concept open to various interpretations, raises questions concerning the desirable degree of prescription and conformity to be promoted in pupils'…

The contribution of spoken language to outcomes for education and beyond, including attainment, wellbeing and empowerment is long-established and has recently become more prominent under the title of oracy, often conceptualised as learning both to and through talk. Part of the renewed interest in oracy is due to its potential for driving social…