Talking Partners

What is Talking Partners?

Talking Partners is a proven, highly successful intervention programme, which aims to close the achievement gap in speaking and listening in groups of targeted pupils. It provides additional support for oral language and is generally delivered by school support staff on a one-to-three ratio of adult to pupil. The programme is suitable for Foundation Stage, KS1 or KS2. Elements might be adapted for KS3. Talking Partners is a 10 week programme. At KS1 & KS2 the sessions last 20 minutes and are delivered 3 times a week. At FS the sessions last 10 minutes and are delivered daily. Sessions follow a recurring lesson structure.

Who is the training for?

Talking Partners training is primarily aimed at school support staff, however a member of SMT or a Class teacher who will co-ordinate and manage the programme will need to attend the training. This gives the added benefit that the principles and practice of Talking Partners can be used to develop whole school practice.

What are the potential outcomes?

Qualitative gains include promotion of risk-taking, independence, confidence, self esteem and enjoyment of learning.Quantitative outcomes include above average gains on Renfrew Language Scale and evidence of increase in the complexity of structure, composition and vocabulary use in writing – children need to be able to talk in sentences in order to write them.

What are the aims of the training?

Delegates are trained in how to implement the Talking Partners intervention in the context of their school. Building on existing experience and knowledge, the course develops a deeper understanding of issues, barriers & expectations with regard to effective speaking and listening. The training provides a model of good practice and explores the adult’s role in developing speaking and listening. Practical work is underpinned by theory and is easily transferred to all contexts of the speaking and listening curriculum in school.

Content of training:

Package A ~ Stand alone:

2 full days training and delegates are expected to complete pre-course and post session tasks.

Day 1: introduction to the programme; features of good speaking and listening, expectations of speaking and listening in schools, barriers to effective communication, observation of Talking Partners lessons and link to key principles

Day 2: Structure and delivery of the programme, exploration of content & materials, planning & record keeping, assessment, getting started.

Package B ~ Stand Alone with Follow up Support:

2 full days training as above

Plus

Equivalent to 1 1/2 days of support as agreed with school: Setting up the programme, joint monitoring and evaluation of implementation, additional training, whole school staff meeting etc

Trainers:

Experienced accredited trainers who have attended the Talking Partners training for trainers will deliver the course.

Target Literacy Contact: Christine Cork 07842588735