English

English is the foundation for almost all learning, which takes place in our school. Its mastery empowers the learner and is essential for independent learning, the world of work and most aspects of everyday life.

In addition to approximately 5 hours of English lessons a week, children enjoy reading time and drama. Topics covered in school are reinforced for homework.

Children develop their reading skills by working through the reading scheme (Ginn, All Aboard, Soundstart and ORT) at their own pace. Children are also encouraged to use the class libraries and to enjoy reading a variety of text.

Reception

Phonics work is based on Jolly Phonics. The reading scheme is supported with comprehension cards and workbooks. These start orally.

Children begin emergent writing with an emphasis on correct letter formation. Copywriting and free writing of news also forms part of the early writing experience.

Spelling comprises of simplified lists from the summer term. This has aided transition to Y1.

Year 1

Focus on Literacy forms the core of the syllabus. The children complete workbooks and much of their creative writing is inspired by topics covered in Focus on Literacy.

Children write weekly news including writing about trips, visitors and events.

High frequency spellings are learnt and Just Spelling is introduced.

Year 2

Letts Literacy is used as a basis for grammar and comprehension. Focus English is the basis for much creative writing. Just Spelling continues as the focus for spelling.

Years 3 and 4

Grammar work is based on Letts Literacy. Haydn Richards and Developing Literacy support it.

Letts comprehensions are covered orally.

Key Comprehension is the basis for written comprehension.

Focus English forms the basis for creative English.

Just Spelling continues as the focus for spelling and is supported by CGP KS2 Spelling books 1 and 2.

Year 5

Grammar is based on Letts Literacy. Haydn Richards and Developing Literacy support it. Letts comprehensions are covered orally.

Focus English forms the basis for creative English.

CGP Spelling (Book 3) now forms the core for spelling. Just Spelling supports it.

Year 6

Grammar is based on Letts Literacy. It is supported by Haydn Richards. Letts comprehensions are covered orally. Key comprehension forms the basis for written comprehension. Focus English forms the basis for creative English. CGP Spelling (Book4) now forms the core for spelling. It is supported by Just spelling.

Reading time enjoyed in the garden