As Head of the Junior School, I am continually proud of the way our girls demonstrate confidence through public speaking. From Reception upwards, every girl participates in termly class assemblies, and each girl takes part in performances throughout the school year.
These opportunities are not reserved for a select few, they are woven into the fabric of school life so that every girl experiences what it means to be heard, valued and applauded.
Within the classroom, girls are encouraged to share their thoughts and opinions openly. Whether discussing a book, solving a problem, or reflecting on their learning, their voices are central to the process, and we know these discussions are a key in their learning journey. Our teachers create environments where speaking and listening are not just encouraged but expected, helping the girls to develop the confidence to articulate their ideas clearly and respectfully. Beyond the classroom, our cocurricular provision offers further opportunities to strengthen these skills, with clubs such as debating, LAMDA and current affairs providing spaces for thoughtful discussion, performance and self-expression.
At the heart of this is a simple but powerful message: your voice matters.
We actively encourage girls to be ‘10% braver’ in their pursuit, to take that small but significant step beyond their comfort zone. For some, this might mean volunteering an answer; for others, it might be performing on stage or leading a discussion. Over time, these small moments of courage build into a strong sense of self-belief.
We believe that oracy, the ability to speak, listen, communicate and articulate thoughts clearly, is an essential life skill. It underpins academic success, deepens understanding and fosters meaningful connections with others. Importantly, it also teaches our girls how to disagree constructively, to listen with empathy and to respond thoughtfully, skills I believe that are vital not only in school but in life beyond it.
The forthcoming changes to the national curriculum in 2028 signal a significant shift for many schools, with a renewed emphasis on communication skills and spoken language. However, within the Junior School, this simply formalises what we have long championed. Our commitment to oracy is not new, it is embedded in our ethos, our teaching and our daily practice. We recognise that confident communication does not happen by chance. It is carefully nurtured through consistent opportunities, encouragement and high expectations.
Empowering girls to find and use their voice is about more than speaking aloud; it is about building confidence, fostering independence, and nurturing future leaders. The Designing the Future of Girls’ Education Insights Report (2024), highlights that structured, collaborative discussion in a girls-only environment encourages students to take academic risks and ‘find their voice’ without the pressures often found in co-educational settings
In giving every girl a voice, we are not only shaping confident communicators, we are equipping them with the tools to navigate an ever-changing world. We are helping them to become individuals who can advocate for themselves and others, contribute meaningfully to society and lead with clarity and conviction.
Because when a girl finds her voice, there is no limit to what she can achieve.
To find out more information, visit the Northampton High School website.
Head of Junior School
Northampton High School
