CHILDREN at Cockwood Primary School have proved they are in fine voice as the school is set to be accredited as an Oracy Centre of Excellence.

National oracy charity, Voice 21, has chosen the school for its work developing students’ speaking, listening and communication skills.

It was selected to receive the status of ‘Oracy Centre of Excellence’ out of the 1150 schools that Voice 21 works with annually.

Oracy, like reading, writing and arithmetic, is a foundational skill that ensures students thrive at school and in life.

As a Voice 21 Oracy Centre of Excellence, Cockwood Primary School acts as a beacon of good practice for oracy across the school system.

Alison Roper, Head of School said: ‘We are very proud to be the first school in Devon awarded the Centre of Excellence status.

‘At Cockwood School we have oracy as a golden thread woven throughout our curriculum, and across our school, to empower our pupils to become tomorrow’s successful citizens.’

Teacher Laura Mitchell said: ‘We want all our pupils to become confident, articulate and respectful communicators.

‘Being part of the Voice 21 network of schools, has given us the tools and training to deliver this vision.’

Dr Kate Paradine, CEO ofVoice 21, says: ‘The Voice 21 Oracy Centre of Excellence award certifies and celebrates schools who are changing the face of education.

‘Cockwood Primary School has demonstrated the quality of oracy education being provided across five areas of school life; their school’s vision, culture, curriculum, learning and impact on students.

‘This whole school approach is at the heart of what it means to offer high-quality oracy education which will enable every child to use their voice to thrive in school, work and life.’