English is the foundation of all learning. We want children to grow into confident communicators who enjoy reading, writing and sharing their ideas. By exploring stories, poems, information texts and rich language, children learn about different places, people and experiences. English helps children develop imagination, empathy and creativity, and gives them the skills they need to succeed in every subject across the curriculum. 

How we teach Writing

English is woven into daily life in school. Children learn through high-quality books, lively discussions and purposeful writing activities. 

•     Writing is taught step by step, with teachers modelling how to plan, edit and improve. 
•     Vocabulary is taught explicitly because knowing more words helps children express themselves clearly. 

What wewantchildrentolearn 

We want every child to become a confident speaker and an enthusiastic writer. Children learn to express their thoughts clearly, choose interesting vocabulary and write for different purposes and audiences.

Implementation

Writing

Early Writing (Reception)

• Writing begins with Drawing Club, encouraging imagination, storytelling and early composition.
• This is complemented by Ruth Miskin Get Writing, which provides structure, practice and progression in early sentence building.
• Targeted English lessons also support foundational skills such as letter formation, oral rehearsal and early transcription.

Writing Progression Through School

• As children move through the school, teachers plan sequential writing units that build on prior knowledge and ensure core skills are revisited and embedded.
• Grammar, punctuation and spelling (SPAG) is taught explicitly and then applied meaningfully within writing.
• In KS2, spelling is supported by Ruth Miskin Spelling, ensuring children are taught “stage not age,” allowing for personalised progression.
• Handwriting is taught consistently across the school through the Ruth Miskin handwriting programme.

Speaking, Listening & Thinking

• We use Let’s Think in English (King’s College London) to develop metacognition, high‑level reasoning and oracy.
• These sessions allow children to explore ideas, discuss texts deeply and articulate their thinking clearly and confidently.