Holding a free* talk at school is a way to enrich education by introducing pupils to new ideas, topics or perspectives they might not encounter in their day-to-day lessons. It creates an opportunity for pupils, teachers and parents to engage in meaningful discussions. As well as contacting national charities and organisations that provide talks, you could reach out to local groups and businesses that may be willing to share their expertise. Building these connections can help strengthen your community and widen your local network.
*Some organisations may request travel expenses. You may wish to make a donation.
Amnesty International
Topic: Human rights
Engaging with a local Amnesty activist can provide primary and secondary pupils with insights on issues such as equal rights, peaceful protest and children’s human rights. It gives pupils an opportunity to learn about and discuss these critical topics.
amnesty.org.uk/invite-amnesty-speaker-your-school
The Bank of England
Topics: Economics, financial services and technology
Not all schools teach economics but understanding how the economy works can help establish personal finance skills, spark an interest in economics and inform career choices. The Bank of England’s volunteer Bank Ambassadors offer four options for talks to secondary school pupils: What does the Bank of England do?, Economics in Practice (for ages 16 to 18), Introduction to Financial Services, and Payment Technology at the Bank. Talks support a range of subjects, including PSHE and Citizenship.
bankofengland.co.uk/education/school-visits
Blue Cross
Topic: Caring for pets
Trained Blue Cross speakers offer free talks in primary schools to inspire a deep understanding of animal care among young pupils. Blue Cross is dedicated to improving the lives of pets, believing that education is central to helping them live long and happy lives. Sessions are designed to engage pupils, foster empathy and help develop successful relationships between pets and their owners.
bluecross.org.uk/book-education-talk-0
Greenpeace
Topic: Climate change
Greenpeace offers speaker sessions for pupils aged seven to 11 and 11 to 17, led by dedicated volunteer speakers. The talks help young people understand climate science and discover how they can make a positive impact. Pupils will have the opportunity to make posters and learn how to take action by contacting their MP.
greenpeace.org.uk/volunteering/greenpeace-speakers
Samaritans
Topic: Emotional wellbeing
Host a talk that helps young people learn to express their feelings and understand where they can find emotional support. Trained volunteers from local Samaritans branches can visit your school to speak to pupils from Year 9 and up. Talks cover topics including emotional health, the value of listening, effective coping strategies and the critical role that the charity plays in providing support to those in need. Contact the education team who will connect you with your local Samaritans branch.
samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/schools/samaritans-schools-talks
Water Aid
Topic: Clean water and sanitation
Every person deserves access to fresh water, decent toilets and good hygiene. Water Aid’s trained volunteer speakers provide talks for pupils of all ages across the UK. Speakers cover topics including how clean water changes lives, climate change and periods. They can also focus on key days of the year, such as World Water Day in March, Menstrual Hygiene Day in May, Global Handwashing Day in October and World Toilet Day in November.
wateraid.org/uk/get-involved/teaching/book-a-free-speaker
Animal Aid
Topics: animal welfare, animal rights and pets
Founded in 1977, Animal Aid offers free educational talks on animal rights issues to schools across the country. Their trained speakers focus on animal welfare and pets, helping to instill a sense of responsibility in children towards all forms of animal life. Talks aim to encourage pupils to appreciate the importance of caring for both domestic and wild animals. Animal Aid does not bring live animals into schools. Many of its speakers can also run vegan cookery demonstrations.
Better Planet Education
Topics: Humans and the environment, nature
Discover how human activities impact our planet and explore wildlife and habitat diversity through a free talk from Better Planet Education. By collaborating with schools and teachers, Better Planet Education aims to equip young people with balanced and factual information about the environment. Pupils will examine issues such as climate change and pollution, or the importance of pollinators and endangered species, with a focus on practical solutions through actions such as reducing consumption and encouraging biodiversity at school. Better Planet Education also offers interactive nature talks designed for young learners in Nursery, Reception and key stage1 that will introduce them to the wonders of the natural world. Schools located within a 30-mile radius of Better Planet Education’s headquarters in Yeovil, Somerset, can book an in-person talk.
betterplaneteducation.org.uk/book-a-school-talk
As an alternative, reach out to local experts, hobbyists and members of the school community. Local speakers can offer firsthand knowledge and personal insights on subjects such as history, careers, culture and ecology in your area. Not only will this help pupils learn about where they live, but it may also inspire them to explore new interests and encourage community involvement.
