A Newquay academy is bursting with pride after being recognised nationally for its outstanding oracy practice.

Trenance Learning Academy has become a Voice 21 Centre of Excellence, which recognises the commitment of Trenance, and Kernow Learning, to develop children’s confidence and competence in spoken language, embedding it across teaching and learning within its family of schools.

Newquay and St Austell MP Steve Double visited Trenance to mark the occasion.

Headteacher of Trenance Learning Academy, Matt Williams, said: “Oracy is the ability to articulate ideas, develop understanding and engage with others through spoken language.

“For us, oracy matters, empowering children to know that their voice matters, is really important to ensuring that they are able to live a life of choice and opportunity

“With the disadvantaged gap creating barriers in society, we pride ourselves on the development of our children and know that they oracy skills that they learn with us, will support them with a more successful future.”

Kernow Learning CEO, Clare Crowle, added: “I am so delighted that the excellence in Trenance has been recognised in this way.

“Our Trust recognises the importance of early language, and all our schools are now working with Voice 21 so that every child can benefit from this focus on oracy.”

Mayor Cllr Margaret North added: “Trenance Academy in Newquay, has been recognised as an Oracy Centre of Excellence in recognition of their commitment to developing their student’s confidence and competence in spoken language, embedding it across teaching and learning within school.

“Oracy is the ability to articulate ideas, develop understanding and engage with others through spoken language.

“It is a powerful tool for learning; it teaches students to become more effective speakers and listeners. Empowering them to have the confidence to disagree respectfully.”

The education charity, Voice 21, promotes oracy as a route to social mobility, empowering all students, not just some, to find their voice to succeed in school and life.

A spokesperson added: “Oracy skills are vital to success in school and in life. And yet, for many children, especially those growing up in poverty, opportunities to develop these vital skills are missed.”

To find out more visit www.voice21.org