Public speaking is one of the most valuable skills a student can develop throughout their school years. Although it has traditionally been considered a useful skill only for those who aspire to lead teams or hold positions of responsibility, the truth is that oratory is fundamental in all areas of life: from presenting a project in class to conducting a job interview or defending ideas in a debate.
At the Colegio Internacional de Granada, we understand that effective communication is a tool for learning and personal development that should be cultivated from an early age. Teaching children to express themselves with clarity, confidence, and empathy is preparing them to navigate any future situation with poise.
During childhood and adolescence, students are more receptive to acquiring habits and skills that, over time, become a natural part of their daily lives. Public speaking isn’t just about learning oral expression techniques; it’s also about working on emotional aspects like managing stage fright and building self-confidence.
At our school in Granada, we encourage activities from the earliest school stages that prompt students to express themselves in front of their peers: reading aloud, giving short project presentations, or participating in dramatizations. These seemingly simple exercises lay the foundation for a skill that will grow with them throughout their education.
The benefits of introducing oratory from an early age are numerous:
At our bilingual school in Granada, students learn these skills in both their native language and other languages, which expands their ability to communicate in international contexts.
The process of teaching oratory should be progressive and adapted to the students’ age. Some strategies we apply in the classroom include:
These activities are reinforced with collaborative projects where students must communicate their results clearly and persuasively.
One of the main obstacles to public speaking is stage fright. Students often fear making mistakes, being judged, or not remembering what they have to say. To help them overcome this challenge, it’s important to:
At our bilingual high school in Granada, we support students in this process, reminding them that consistent practice and the support of their peers are key to overcoming fear and gaining confidence.
Public speaking also promotes inclusion, as it offers all students, regardless of their abilities or learning styles, the chance to express themselves and be heard. This boosts their self-esteem and strengthens mutual respect in the classroom. Furthermore, oratory fosters empathy, because teaching effective communication also means learning to listen actively. In this way, public speaking not only improves individual skills but also contributes to a more positive and constructive environment.
Teaching public speaking from an early age is not a luxury, but an educational necessity. This skill provides tools that will accompany students throughout all stages of their lives, helping them to express themselves clearly, defend their ideas, and interact with others respectfully and effectively.
At the Colegio Internacional de Granada, we consider public speaking a fundamental pillar in the comprehensive education of our students. Preparing young people to communicate with confidence is preparing them to lead, collaborate, and transform the world around them.
