How This SEMH School in Wirral Used Oracy to Build Confidence and Improve Literacy
In this episode of All Chalk, we speak to Danny Hart, Head of Literacy at The Observatory School in Wirral. Danny shares how his SEMH setting is using structured pupil voice and debate to help students build confidence and strengthen their literacy skills.
Coming from a mainstream background, Danny quickly recognised that many students lacked confidence in speaking, alongside gaps in reading and writing. Rather than focusing on writing alone, the school introduced a consistent approach to oracy, giving students regular opportunities to talk, listen, and engage.
“If we can get our young people speaking about what they’re going to write or read, it removes that anxiety and breaks down the barrier.”
In this episode, we explore:
✅ How weekly debates are building confidence and engagement
✅ Why oracy plays a key role in literacy development
✅ How flexible delivery supports staff buy-in
✅ The impact on reading, writing, and participation
By embedding weekly class discussions, the school has created a routine where every student has the chance to contribute. This is helping students become more confident speakers, while also improving their ability to write and engage with learning.
Danny also highlights the importance of starting small, focusing on consistent routines before expanding pupil voice across the school.
Whether you’re working in an SEMH setting or looking to strengthen literacy and engagement, this episode offers practical ideas you can apply straight away.
Want to check it out?
