English

Intent

Why do we teach this? Why do we teach it in the way we do?

We intend to provide our pupils with a high quality education in English by providing all pupils with the opportunity to speak, read and write fluently so that they can communicate their ideas and emotions to others and others can communicate with them.  We recognise that English allows them to develop culturally, emotionally, intellectually, socially and spiritually. At Netherhall St. James Infant and Nursery School our aim is to promote high standards of language and English by equipping pupils with a strong command of the spoken and written word, and to develop their love of literature through widespread reading for enjoyment.  We aim to ensure that pupils can read easily, fluently and with good understanding for both pleasure and information. 

Children are able to acquire wide vocabulary and an understanding of grammar and knowledge of linguistic conventions for reading, writing and spoken language and can begin to appreciate our varied and literary heritage.  We intend that our pupils will write clearly, accurately and coherently, adapting their language and style in and for a range of contexts, purposes and audiences.  We want them to use discussion in order to learn: they should be able to elaborate and explain clearly their understanding and ideas and to begin to be confident in the art of speaking and listening, making formal presentations to others and participating in debate.

Our progressive planning is designed to allow all pupils the opportunity to apply, and understand the matters, skills and processes to fulfil the statutory requirements of the National Curriculum, and to fulfil the intentions of our English Curriculum in their learning journey throughout our school. 

EYFS

EYFS follow Early Years guidance. They use the Power of Reading to develop children’s writing skills through the use of quality children’s literature and creative teaching approaches to foster a love of reading and writing.

English resources are provided in continuous provision to allow children to explore mark making and practice writing skills independently.

Work is recorded in individual work books and Learning Journeys.

KS1

In Key Stage 1 we use the Get Writing aspect of Read Write inc to help children to develop the basics of writing, punctuation and grammar. The children will also have the opportunity to use high quality texts to develop reading and writing skills, allowing the children to improve their vocabulary and language. They will have exposure to different genres throughout the year and become familiar with fiction and non-fiction texts. Learning is linked with our CLICK topics where possible as this allows us to have a holistic approach and allows children to practice their writing skills within other lessons. This enables children to immerse themselves in stories and experiences which will inspire them to develop an enjoyment of writing and therefore progress their writing skills. This helps us to develop enthusiastic writers who have the confidence to express themselves in a range of different styles.