About the Project

The Sound of Politics: Political Literacy, Oracy and Media Skills Project is designed to help young people understand, analyse and participate in political communication. Led by Professor Stephen Coleman, host of The Sound of Politics podcast, and Carl Hartley, the podcast’s producer and Lecturer in Journalism at the University of Leeds, the project brings together political literacy, communication skills and media education at a time when they have never been more important.

Drawing on years of research, broadcasting experience and university teaching, Coleman and Hartley are creating a comprehensive teaching toolbox for schools. This includes lesson plans, audio clips, activities and step‑by‑step guides that support teachers in delivering high‑quality learning around:

• Political literacy
• Oracy (speaking and listening)
• Media analysis and production
• Digital and employability skills

The project is being piloted in early 2026 at Leeds City Academy, with plans for wider publication and rollout later in the year.

Why This Matters Now

Young people today are increasingly exposed to political debate, digital media and public discourse, yet often lack the tools to navigate them confidently.

This project arrives at a crucial moment:

• The UK Government has asked schools to strengthen provision in oracy, political literacy and digital skills.
• The Government has confirmed that 16‑year‑olds will be able to vote in the next General Election, increasing the need for informed engagement.
• Professor Stephen Coleman recently served on the Commission on the Future of Oracy Education in England (2024), whose recommendations will see oracy taught in all English schools.
• Schools and colleges are being encouraged to support pupils not only in understanding politics, but in communicating effectively and evaluating the media they encounter.

This project supports those goals directly, giving pupils the chance to explore politics in a relatable, creative and hands‑on way.

What Pupils Will Do

Pitch, Plan and Present Their Own Podcast Episode

At the heart of the project is a practical, student‑led challenge. Pupils will:

1. Pitch an idea for an episode of The Sound of Politics
2. Plan how to explore an issue that matters to them
3. Analyse how politicians talk about the issue
4. Present their own structured episode or audio segment

The best student‑produced episodes or ideas will sit alongside regular episodes of The Sound of Politics, which explores how political communication truly works.

This approach encourages critical thinking, creativity, teamwork and confident communication.