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Tavistock

Spoken Language & Fluency

Speak with confidence.
Listen well.
Make a difference.
Spoken Language and Fluency at Tavistock Primary and Nursery School
At Tavistock Primary and Nursery School we use the structure and guidance of The Voice 21 Curriculum.
In line with the National Curriculum, we believe that all pupils should be taught to speak clearly and convey ideas confidently using Standard English. They should learn to justify ideas with reasons; ask questions to check understanding; develop vocabulary and build knowledge; negotiate; evaluate and build on the ideas of others; and select the appropriate register for effective communication. They should be taught to give well-structured descriptions and explanations and develop their understanding through speculating, hypothesising and exploring ideas. This will enable them to clarify their thinking as well as organise their ideas for writing. 
 
From buzzing talk partners to collaborative group work and inspiring teacher-led talk, every conversation at TPNS fuels learning and sparks curiosity.
 

Every child has a voice at Tavistock Primary and Nursery School.

Through daily class talk, drama, debate, performances, and our developing Pupil Parliament, children learn to speak confidently, use ambitious vocabulary, and share their ideas with purpose.

 

YOUTH SPEAKS COMPETITION

The Rotary Youth Speaks competition is a UK – based public‑speaking and presentation contest organised by the Rotary Club and its districts. It gives young people aged 11‑17 (split into Intermediate and Senior categories) the chance to refine and showcase their oral communication skills. Rotary in Great Britain and Ireland+2Rotary District 1220+2

Teams of three students take on defined roles — a Chairperson who introduces the team and topic, a Speaker who presents a chosen subject, and a Vote of Thanks who wraps up. After the main presentation, a pre‑selected audience member poses a question, offering a further opportunity for response and reflection.

OUR SUCCESS

Over the last eight years, we have entered this competition and have always placed in the final. Last year, our team became regional winners of the Youth Speaks competition — a fantastic achievement that demonstrates our students’ outstanding communication, preparation and presentation skills. We are proud of how they represented the school, engaged a challenging audience and met the high standards expected in this competition.