How does English support our curriculum intent and Christian vision?

English is not only a subject in it's own right. but it is the vehicle for  teaching all other areas of the curriculum. It is at the heart of our culture and it is the language medium in which our pupils think and communicate. Through reading in particular, pupils have a chance to develop culturally, emotionally, intellectually, socially and spiritually. Literature, especially, plays a key role in such development. Reading also enables pupils both to acquire knowledge and to build on what they already know. All the skills of language are essential to participating fully as a member of society; pupils who do not learn to speak, read and write fluently and confidently. If we want our children to truly act as agents of change then it is essential that they acquire the knowledge and skills in speaking, reading and writing. 

 

How do we structure our  English curriculum?

We use the talk for writing approach since this suits our view of learning the most closely. We have established a core reading spine of quality fiction, poetry and non-fiction that all children experience and draw upon. We adhere closely to the phase approach using cold and hot writes to measure progress. 

We use the Bug Club phonics scheme to make sure that children get off to a really strong start to reading and spelling and match our reading books to this scheme to maximise progress whilst building fluency, confidence and enjoyment. 

English in the Early Years

As a prime area of understanding speaking and listening, reading and writing are the bedrocks to future understanding and success later on in school life. 

 

The Wider English Curriculum

The curriculum for English is deepened by additional opportunities for speaking and listening across all areas of the curriculum but also in very specific activities such as the school council, community events and going out on visits and meeting new people.  Children develop English skills taking part in performances at Christmas and through drama club. Children get other opportunities to speak in public as part of our collective worship leading others and also reading poems and readings as part of religious services. 

	Writing Progression Document	[pdf 316KB]
	Reading Progression Document	[pdf 310KB]
	KS2 LTP with text types	[pdf 556KB]
	KS1 LTP with text types	[pdf 221KB]
	Bug club progression in phonics	[pdf 418KB]