The Millitec Media Starz competition isn’t just about creating radio shows—it’s about helping kids build confidence and develop critical communication skills.
By providing students a platform to express their ideas, we’re helping them to develop a skill that educators and researchers agree is crucial: oracy.
What is Oracy, and Why Does It Matter?
Oracy is the ability to articulate ideas, listen actively, and engage in meaningful communication. It’s more than just speaking—it’s about developing understanding, confidence, and the ability to connect with others through conversation.
A recent report by the Commission on the Future of Oracy Education in England highlights that oracy should be as important as reading, writing, and arithmetic. These skills are essential not only for academic success but also for fighting against the increasing misinformation and polarisation in this world. Moreover, as AI emerges, strong oracy skills will be more valuable than ever.
For more on the importance of oracy education, you can read the full report here.
How Millitec Media Starz Supports Oracy Development
Millitec Media Starz provides a unique opportunity for Year 5 and 6 students to enhance their oracy skills through hands-on experience in creating their own radio shows. Here’s how the competition fosters key aspects of oracy education:
1. Encourages Creativity Students are invited to design a radio show on a food-related topic. This process requires them to express their ideas clearly, develop a structure, and think creatively about how to engage with the listeners.
2. Develops Teamwork Creating a radio show requires the whole group to work together, taking on roles like scriptwriting, presenting, and sound editing. This collaboration builds communication skills and teaches them how to listen and respond to others effectively.
3. Builds Confidence The experience of recording and broadcasting their show on air helps them build confidence in showcasing their ideas and thoughts. They learn to project their voices and express themselves with confidence.
4. Provides Real-World Experience With professional radio equipment and guidance from experts, students gain hands-on experience that ties directly to real-world applications of oracy skills. This exposure helps them understand how communication plays a vital role in various careers, and they can discover the joy of sharing their ideas and seeing them come to life in a tangible way.
A Broader Impact on Education
Millitec Media Starz aligns perfectly with the call for schools to prioritise speaking, listening, and communication across the curriculum and in extracurricular activities. Through activities like this, we can help ensure that children can develop the skills they need to succeed in school, in the workplace, and even in life.
The competition is open to Year 5 and 6 students, and the entry deadline has been extended to 20th December. Students can now enter individually, and we’ll coordinate with their schools. This is a chance to win fame, develop essential skills, and even win up to £1,000 for your school!