National oracy award presented to primary school

A primary school in Jersey has been recognised with a prestigious national award for its dedication to developing students' communication skills.

St Saviour’s School has been named an Oracy Centre of Excellence by Voice 21, a UK charity that supports schools in integrating speaking and listening into the curriculum. The award highlights the school's success in fostering students’ confidence and ability to express themselves effectively.

The accolade makes St Saviour’s the second school on the island to receive the honour, following Samarès School, which achieved the recognition last year.

Deputy Rob Ward, Jersey’s Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning, praised the achievement, stating: “I’m delighted that Jersey now has two centres of excellence for oracy. Congratulations to St Saviour’s School for this well-earned recognition of their commitment to supporting students’ communication skills.”

Empowering Young Voices

To receive the award, St Saviour’s had to demonstrate high-quality oracy education and show the impact of its teaching approach.

Andrew Willis, Jersey’s oracy development lead, described the recognition as “very well deserved,” adding that the school’s focus on oracy has made a “huge impact” on pupils' confidence and learning.

“By ensuring students have their voices heard, they have been empowered to express themselves and contribute to decision-making in the school,” he said.

Currently, 32 schools in Jersey are working in partnership with Voice 21 to enhance students’ speaking and listening skills. Education leaders say the initiative is part of a wider effort to nurture confident, engaged citizens who are prepared for the future.