Why Debating Clubs are Crucial for State Schools
In a bid to enhance children’s oracy skills and foster a culture of debate, a senior leader at Eton College has advocated for the establishment of debating clubs in state schools across England. While private schools often have the resources to focus on enrichment activities beyond the standard curriculum, state school teachers face challenges in dedicating time and training to develop students’ speaking abilities. The government has expressed its commitment to prioritizing speaking skills in education, with plans for a curriculum and assessment review that will emphasize oracy.
The Importance of Oracy and Life Skills
The Life Lessons 2024 report by the Sutton Trust underscores the significance of life skills, with 96% of teachers believing them to be as important or even more crucial than formal academic qualifications in shaping young people’s future success. However, half of state school teachers admit they lack the necessary time and training to focus on these non-academic skills. In comparison to private schools, state schools are twice as likely to be perceived as lacking in opportunities for students to develop essential life skills.
Eton College, renowned for its emphasis on oracy, boasts a rich tradition of producing confident speakers, including 20 prime ministers. Jonathan Noakes, Eton’s director of teaching and learning, highlights the school’s unique approach to teaching through discussion and the specific training provided to teachers to facilitate classroom debates. While Eton’s small class sizes and confident student body present advantages, Noakes acknowledges the challenges faced by state school teachers in engaging larger classes in discussions.
Challenges in State Schools and Potential Solutions
State schools like the London Academy of Excellence have recognized the need for specific oracy programs to address the distinct contexts of their students. With larger class sizes and diverse student populations, state schools face hurdles in implementing effective oracy initiatives. Debate clubs could serve as a valuable platform for students to hone their speaking skills and engage in constructive discussions.
The Sutton Trust survey reveals a significant disparity between private and state schools in terms of debating club availability, with only 18% of state schools offering such clubs compared to 53% in private schools. While some state schools have integrated oracy into select subjects like English or history, there is room for improvement in embedding these skills across all lessons. Stoke Park School in Coventry stands out as a comprehensive school that prioritizes oracy throughout its curriculum, providing students with ample opportunities to express themselves confidently.
Sir Peter Lampl, the Sutton Trust’s founder, emphasizes the importance of equipping young people with effective communication skills to navigate academic and professional environments successfully. By fostering a culture of debate and prioritizing oracy in education, state schools can empower students to advocate for themselves and thrive in various settings.
As the educational landscape evolves, the integration of debating clubs and oracy programs in state schools becomes increasingly vital. By investing in teachers’ training and providing students with platforms to engage in meaningful discussions, schools can equip the next generation with the essential speaking skills needed to succeed in an ever-changing world.
