Previous events:

Topsy Page – An Introduction to Oracy

Thursday 2^nd July, 4:15-5:15pm; free and online

Sign up here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/topsy-page-an-introduction-to-oracy-tickets-1989321372777

An introduction to the key principles of oracy and the vital role talk plays in learning. The session explores both how to develop oracy skills, and how to develop purposeful classroom dialogue to improve thinking, confidence and participation across the curriculum.

Topsy Page is an experienced educator, trainer and facilitator specialising in oracy and Philosophy for Children (P4C). She works with schools to build cultures of high-quality dialogue and reasoning, helping pupils think deeply, articulate ideas with confidence, and learn from one another. She is the author of Oracy - 100 Ideas for Primary Teachers, and co-author of Oracy - 100 Ideas for Secondary Teachers.

A teacher and former Assistant Head, Writing Lead and SLE, Topsy has over a decade of experience using oracy and P4C to transform classroom practice. Her work focuses on maximising pupil-to-pupil dialogue - an often-overlooked resource that can significantly improve engagement, outcomes and equity.

Topsy delivers practical, engaging and thought-provoking training on oracy and P4C, alongside bespoke coaching. She is an associate of Oracy Cambridge and has worked as a lecturer and trainer across a range of educational settings.

Topsy also writes a popular blog on oracy and classroom dialogue, sharing practical strategies and reflections with educators each week—published every Friday. www.topsypage.com

Based in West Yorkshire, UK, Topsy works nationally and internationally.

 

Nathan Burns – What Really Need To Know About Metacognition

19^th May 2026

What does effective metacognition actually look like in the classroom?

This webinar will explore what you actually need to know about metacognition. Starting by diving into the rationale for metacognition in the classroom, this webinar will then turn its attention to the theory of metacognition. What is it? What is it not? And what on earth does it look like in the classroom? Through attending this webinar, you will develop your foundational understanding of metacognition, and begin to consider what makes for high-quality metacognitive teaching.

 

 

Sarah Johnson - Storytelling and SEMH

26^th March 2026

How can storytelling support children and young people with SEMH needs?

Storytelling is more than a literacy tool – it is a powerful relational and emotional bridge.

In this webinar, Sarah Johnson explores how storytelling can support children and young people with social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs by creating safety, connection and meaning. Drawing on folk tales, sensory storytelling, puppetry and emotionally resonant texts, the session examines how stories help children make sense of big feelings, identity, belonging and behaviour.

Grounded in practice from mainstream, PRU and alternative provision settings, this webinar offers practical, accessible approaches to using storytelling to reduce anxiety, build emotional literacy and strengthen relationships. Participants will leave with ideas they can use immediately to support regulation, inclusion and a sense of belonging – particularly for children who struggle to communicate their experiences in traditional ways.

 

 

Alex Fairlamb - Scaffolding for Supporting Literacy and Oracy

22^nd January 2026

How can we effectively scaffold to ensure that all students succeed in the classroom?