ESB Launches My Voice: A New Way to Recognise and Develop Oracy in Primary Schools
Speaking and listening are at the heart of learning, helping children explore ideas, build relationships and develop confidence. Yet while reading and writing are routinely assessed and celebrated, spoken communication often receives less formal recognition in schools.
That is why ESB International is proud to launch My Voice, a new suite of primary oracy qualifications designed to give schools a structured, practical and affordable way to recognise learners’ spoken language skills
What is My Voice?
My Voice is a suite of three unregulated oracy qualifications for primary-aged learners. The qualifications have been developed to help children communicate with confidence, listen actively, express ideas clearly and collaborate effectively with others.
The suite consists of:
ESB Oracy Award
(Entry 1): My Voice and Me
Designed primarily for Key Stage 1 learners aged 5-7, this qualification develops foundational speaking, listening, storytelling and communication skills
ESB Oracy Award
(Entry 2): My Voice in My Community
Learners develop greater independence through discussion, collaboration and communication linked to their communities
ESB Oracy Award
(Entry 3): My Voice in the World
Learners broaden their communication skills through discussion, debate and exploration of wider global themes
Why Schools Need Oracy Qualifications
Research and policy continue to highlight the importance of spoken language in supporting academic achievement, literacy development and personal growth. ESB’s new qualifications help schools:
- Embed high-quality oracy practice
- Recognise learners’ achievements in speaking and listening
- Develop confidence and self-belief
- Support literacy and comprehension
- Encourage authentic communication rather than “test talk”
Flexible Assessment for Busy Schools
A key feature of My Voice is its practical classroom-based assessment model.
Teachers assess learners through everyday activities including:
- Presentations and talks
- Collaborative discussions
- Storytelling and reading aloud
- Group problem-solving
- Functional speaking and listening tasks
Assessment is completed internally by trained staff and externally moderated by ESB International, providing confidence in outcomes while minimising disruption to teaching and learning.
Affordable Oracy Recognition for every Learner
Designed with flexibility in mind, the My Voice qualifications offer an accessible way for schools and educational providers to recognise and celebrate learners’ spoken communication skills. Whether delivered in a mainstream primary school, special school, alternative provision or community-based setting, the qualifications are designed to fit naturally within everyday teaching and learning. Their internally assessed model helps reduce barriers to participation while giving learners the opportunity to gain formal recognition for their oracy development.
More Information Coming Soon
Formal qualification specifications, teaching and learning resources, centre guidance and booking information will be released shortly. Registering your interest will ensure you are among the first to receive launch updates, qualification documentation and details on how to begin delivering the My Voice qualifications within your setting.