English
English is delivered through a combination of high quality teaching and a carefully structured, innovative curriculum.The aim is to create confident communicators, very good writers and pupils who are keen, competent readers.
The varied needs of pupil groups in English are recognised and catered for specifically as teachers ensure that lessons are planned to meet this range of ability. We believe that being multilingual is an asset and we respect the variety of languages in our school community. Teachers listen to what pupils say about English, recognise what they enjoy and understand how best to support and challenge. Rich experiences of the spoken word engage pupils, enhancing their learning in the different areas of English. The oral skills of our youngest pupils are developed through structured role play. Teachers plan carefully for the development of speaking and listening in class, making effective use of drama and group activities to promote spoken word opportunities.
We strongly believe that synthetic phonics teaching is the key to pupils learning to read successfully and with confidence. In the Reception and Key Stage One classes pupils are immersed in a thorough and engaging programme of phased phonics learning. Progress is continually monitored. Pupils needing additional support are identified and supported through early intervention. A positive reading environment is promoted through a balance of shared, guided and regular independent reading in all year groups. Teachers read and talk with enthusiasm, recommending texts and promoting opportunities for pupils to read for enjoyment and learning both within and beyond the curriculum.
Writing composition skills are highly promoted through the quality teaching of grammar, spelling and punctuation. A robust structure is followed to ensure coverage and to equip learners with the tools to become confident, effective writers. Pupils learn to write for a range of purposes and in a variety of genres, including creating imaginative stories and poems. Pupils’ use of computing to develop writing composition skills is implemented across a range of curriculum subjects. The school handwriting scheme (Nelson) supports pupils in developing a clear, personal handwriting style by the end of Key Stage Two.
