Intent

English is a vital way of communicating. Through speaking and listening, reading and writing children learn to express themselves creatively and imaginatively and communicate with others effectively.

At Coulsdon C of E Primary School we believe that the study of English should enable pupils:

• To appreciate how speaking and listening, reading and writing are integrated.
• To develop their ability to communicate orally for a range of purposes and audiences.
• To become confident, thoughtful and enthusiastic readers who read for pleasure and use their book knowledge to become creative and confident writers.
• To use a wide variety of writing styles and genres, so communicating effectively in written forms.
• To practise their handwriting and other presentational skills.

Implementation

Curriculum Maestro, along with carefully sought topic based texts, provide an exciting stimulus to encourage children to write for pleasure. Our lessons develop pupils’ spoken language, reading, writing and grammar and vocabulary.  English is taught in a cross-curricular way, linking up with other areas of the curriculum.  We teach our pupils to speak clearly, to convey their ideas fluently and confidently and to ask questions.  The introduction of the ‘Mrs Wordsmith’ scheme supports our continued drive to extend our children’s vocabulary.  Our pupils are encouraged to read for pleasure and to read widely to support the broadening of their vocabulary.

We use Read, Write Inc for our phonics and spelling programme. Phonological awareness helps the development of reading by segmenting and blending sounds.  This essential skill is an integral part of developing writing skills.

At Coulsdon C of E Primary School we work together so that our pupils have the stamina and ability to write at the age expected standard.  To support children in moving towards independent writing, we provide a wide range of activities including use of film and imagery, modelled, shared and guided writing, peer editing and discussion.  We provide opportunities for writing for purpose and we encourage pupils to see themselves as authors.  We celebrate Children’s written work by providing opportunities for their writing to be displayed and each term exceptional pieces of writing from each class are placed in the hallway frames to be read and enjoyed by the whole school.