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Frank Cottrell-Boyce and guests

Speaking Up for Success: Hay Festival Exclusive

Hay Festival 2026, 

Writer and children's laureate, Frank Cottrell-Boyce kicks off a bold campaign to get young people talking. Improving a child’s speaking skills is proven to directly improve their life chances, and the biggest transformations can be seen in children from the poorest backgrounds. Frank Cottrell-Boyce reveals the real-world impact of encouraging young people to express their thoughts and make their voices heard, and is joined by some surprise guests in his mission to help those from the toughest beginnings find a better life through the power of speaking.

Frank Cottrell-Boyce and guests