Success and Recognition
Performing with Pride and Purpose
The impact has been extraordinary. Our students have performed at the Great Oracy Exhibition (2024), where both learners and staff presented Coventry Academy’s oracy journey to hundreds of delegates from across the UK and Channel Islands. We’re proud to have been invited back to present again in October 2025, selected from over 1,200 Voice 21 schools nationwide.
In response to Sharon Gray and Joe Cook’s presentation ‘From Pru to Pro’ Dr Kate Paradine, the CEO of Voice 21 commented:
“Your session was absolutely brilliant, and I couldn't believe the rap lines at the end. A brilliant close to the day's sessions for me personally and for others there and we really look forward to sharing the learning further in the future. There has been so much wonderful feedback on the whole day and that wouldn't have been possible without contributions like yours.”
In June 2025, students performed a show-stopping Shakespearean rap at the Belgrade Theatre as part of the RSC’s Associate Schools celebration, reimagining Romeo and Juliet through modern lyricism. Their performance — professionally produced with support from Coventry Music — brought Tybalt to life through the language of rap and the heartbeat of oracy. . Read about our “Mad About Bards” project and listen to the their electrifying performance.
Recognition and Real-World Inspiration
Our work has attracted attention from artists and educators alike. During a visit from Ed Sheeran to launch his music foundation, one of our students performed an original rap — an emotional apology to his mum. Ed praised his performance, posed for a selfie, and donated generously to support music education at Coventry Academy and our new music studio.
This funding continues to strengthen our provision, opening doors to new collaborations, equipment, and creative opportunities for our young people.
In October of 2025 our staff presented the work being done at Coventry Academy at Voice 21’s national conference at the ICC Birmingham, chosen from over 1200 member schools – for the second year in a row.
We have also recently had a visit from the founder of Edtech, Kate Bodrova, who praised the highly creative oracy work carried out in English. Kate commented “I left genuinely inspired by your leadership and vision. I’m a huge fan of what you’re doing and would be delighted to support your team.”
Oracy isn’t just helping our students succeed — it’s putting Coventry Academy on the map as a national leader in inclusive communication.
Student Success Stories
- Jamie K, Year 11, performed live at the Voice 21 National Conference and the Coventry Godiva Festival, and went on to win the Silver Award for Innovation, Creativity and Arts at the Engage in Their Future Awards (Manchester, 2025).
- Subhan R, was shortlisted as a finalist for The Day’s Global Journalism Award for his reflective and powerful writing — a perfect example of how oracy and literacy intertwine.
Oracy through music has transformed how our students see themselves. It teaches them to listen, to express, to perform, and to believe that their voices matter — on stage, in exams, and in life.
“Our students arrive believing they’ve lost their voice in the world. Oracy gives it back to them - stronger than ever.”
Sharon Gray, Head of English