Confident Speaking Program

Help younger students find their voice, express their ideas and communicate with confidence.

The Confident Speaking program is delivered by experienced independent coaches and is highly recommended for Year 3 and Year 4 students. Through practical, small-group speaking sessions, guided conversations and age-appropriate scenarios, students learn how to explain their ideas, listen to others and participate more confidently at school and at home.

What students will develop

The program is designed to help students:

  • speak confidently in small groups, in the classroom and before an audience;
  • explain their ideas and give reasons for their opinions;
  • communicate more effectively with classmates, teachers and family members;
  • listen and respond respectfully to different points of view;
  • participate positively in classroom and school conversations; and
  • build confidence and self-esteem through supported speaking practice.

How the program works

Sessions are:

  • designed for Year 3 and Year 4 students;
  • delivered in small groups of up to six students;
  • 30 minutes in duration;
  • held at the school during or after school hours;
  • available weekly, fortnightly or monthly; and
  • available from Term 3, 2026.

Schools may arrange two consecutive 30-minute sessions, allowing up to 12 students to participate during each visit.

Sessions emphasise learning through practice. Students discuss relatable situations, explain their choices, respond to questions and complete occasional take-home activities or quizzes.

Sample discussion activities

Students might explore questions such as:

  • How would you persuade your parents to let you join a school sports team?
  • Why might a student find mathematics difficult or uninteresting, and what could help?
  • Would you prefer a puppy, a kitten or neither? What reasons support your choice?

These activities give students an accessible and enjoyable way to practise reasoning, persuasion, listening and clear expression.

Program fees

  • $60 per hour, comprising two 30-minute sessions
  • $15 travel charge per school visit
  • GST applies

The program may be funded directly by the school or offered through a parent-contribution arrangement.

Program coaches

Thomas Man holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Adelaide. He is an experienced community educator who has delivered STEM and HASS programs through Mawson Lakes Library and the City of Prospect. Thomas has also taught debating skills to more than 60 students. He holds a current Working with Children Check.

Kent Man holds a Bachelor of Media Arts from the University of South Australia. A former high school debater, Kent is an experienced tutor who has delivered animation programs for the City of Salisbury and the City of Charles Sturt. He holds a current Working with Children Check.

Expressions of interest

South Australian primary schools are invited to register their interest in hosting the Confident Speaking program from Term 3, 2026.

To discuss scheduling, funding arrangements or the needs of your students, contact the program coaches at

Email: thomasktman@yahoo.com.au
Mobile: 0481 333 554