We do not follow a specific scheme for reading. We have a wide selection of books from different reading schemes including Ginn, Rigby Star, Floppy's Phonics and Oxford Reading Tree. We believe that this is advantageous to the children as they do not become over familiar and reliant on one scheme - rather they develop their skills and can apply them to a range of different books and texts. Children read regularly at school. In the Early Years this is with an adult both in individual and shared or guided sessions and reading books are se;lected to match the phonics that children are learning. As children make progress individual and guided reading sessions continue and children are also encouraged to read independently on a regular basis too. There is a focus on comprehension and understanding - not just being able to read the text. We welcome parent volunteers into school to complete reading activities with children.

Children will explore different styles of writing and develop their flair and creativity whilst maintaining technical accuracy. Writing is a key tool for communicating in all subject areas and we work hard to develop this. The use of a word processor to aid children's writing will also be used to support children who may have difficulties with writing - and also to explore different forms of presentation. Examples of children's work can be found in the gallery on our website.

Handwriting

We follow the Nelson scheme for handwriting which is developmental and progressive from Reception through to Year 6. As children become proficient with joined handwriting they may be issued with a 'pen licence' to enable them to write in pen rather than pencil.

Speaking and Listening

Through a range of activities children will be encouraged and taught to communicate effectively. They will understand the need to adapt their style and vocabulary for different audiences and to be an active listener. Speaking and Listening activities will be developed throughout all curriculum areas.

Spelling, Punctuation and Grammar

This is an important element of reading and writing. Spelling, punctuation and grammar activities begin from the Early Years - from the understanding of oral sentences to the technical accuracy of writing and understanding different elements of English.

Phonics

Phonics is a method of teaching children to read, spell and write in English by using the spoken sounds that letters or groups of letters make.  It is used in school as the primary method for teaching children to read and is hugely important in developing early English skills.  Please see the separate page dedicated to phonics for full information.