Public Speaking Masterclass



Overview

Learn the tools with speak with clarity, confidence and impact. Designed for professionals as well as aspiring, new and seasoned leaders, this course focuses on how to structure and deliver compelling talks that engage and inspire. 

You’ll go beyond conventional public speaking techniques by drawing on insights from auditory neuroscience, using sound-based strategies to enhance engagement and memorability. Through rhythm, vocal variety and carefully structured phrasing, discover how to make your message land more effectively and stay with your audience long after the speech ends. 

From shaping a foundational message to mastering delivery, you’ll learn how to structure a short speech with intention, refine your script for clarity and flow, and present it with greater authenticity and control. 

The workshop combines interactive exercises, real-time feedback and practical rehearsal to help you internalise your message and build your confidence, whether you’re presenting to colleagues, clients or a wider audience. 

Programme details

Session 1: What do you want to say?

  • Identify a foundational phrase
  • Understand the role of rhyme, rhythm and repetition for auditory impact
  • Use the primacy and recency effects to maximise audience retention

Session 2: When do you want to say it?

  • Design a structure for a 5-minute speech
  • Scriptwriting
  • Make use of auditory assistance for enhancing script
  • Discover why the brain responds to alliteration, onomatopoeia and vocal variety

Session: How do you want to say it?

  • Use proven methods to internalise speech
  • Develop techniques to enhance speech flow and avoid information overload
  • Utilise intonation, pacing and pauses to create impact
  • Practice delivery techniques for greater audience engagement

Session 4: Say it!

  • Present a refined 5-minute speech using all learned techniques
  • Receive constructive feedback to enhance authenticity and effectiveness

Attending Your Course

Further details will be emailed to you two weeks ahead of your course, which will include registration information. 

Please get in touch if you have not received this information within five working days of the course start date.  

In the meantime, you may wish to plan your travel: Travel information 

Digital Certification

In order to be eligible for a certificate of attendance, you will need to attend the whole course. Participants who meet this criterion will be emailed after the end of the course with a link, and instructions on how to access their University of Oxford digital certificate.

The certificate will show your name, the course title and the dates of the course you attended. You will be able to download your certificate, as well as share it on social media if you choose to do so.

Fees

Description Costs
Course Fee £685.00

Payment

Fees include course materials, tuition, refreshments and lunch. The price does not include accommodation.

All courses are VAT exempt.

Register immediately online 

Click the 'Book now' button on this webpage. Payment by credit or debit card is required.

Request an invoice

If you require an invoice for your company or organisation, please email us to request an online enrolment form.  Payment is then accepted online, by credit/debit card, or by bank transfer. 

Tutor

Priscilla Leigh

Priscilla Leigh is an alumna of Kellogg College, Oxford, a TEDx speaker, and an accomplished psychoaudiologist. She is the author of two influential books, The Young Leader's Guide to Public Speaking and How to Smash the 3-Minute Thesis Competition, which empowers PhD students to excel in communicating complex research to non-specialist audiences. Priscilla regularly judges public speaking competitions and delivers workshops to hone effective communication skills.

With her background as a trained audiologist, Priscilla applies her expertise in auditory science—exploring how the auditory system influences the mind, behaviour, and performance—to enhance leadership and communication strategies. Her mission is to help organisations E.A.R. (Excel at Rethinking) Leadership and Communication, fostering innovative approaches to personal and professional growth.

Course aims

By the end of this workshop, you will be able to:

  • Understand how auditory processing shapes audience engagement
  • Craft compelling messages using rhythm, repetition and resonance
  • Use auditory tools to overcome speech anxiety
  • Refine your storytelling skills for greater emotional impact
  • Structure a speech effectively for clarity and persuasion
  • Enhance vocal delivery using pitch, pace and pauses
  • Implement changes on actionable feedback received to elevate your speaking style

Application

If you would like to discuss your application or any part of the application process before applying, please click Ask a Question at the top of this page.

Accommodation

Although not included in the course fee, accommodation may be available at our on-site Rewley House Residential Centre. All bedrooms are en suite and decorated to a high standard, and come with tea- and coffee-making facilities, free Wi-Fi access and Freeview TV. Guests can take advantage of the excellent dining facilities and common room bar, where they may relax and network with others on the programme.

To check prices, availability and to book rooms please visit the Rewley House Residential Centre website. 

Enrolled students are entitled to discounted accommodation rates for the purpose of study, at Rewley House, and can contact the administration team for the promotional code to use for making online accommodation bookings via the website.

Terms & conditions for applicants and students

Information on financial support