Literacy and communication are key skills for lifelong learning. We build on the solid foundations developed in the Infants to ensure that our pupils communicate effectively and creatively through the spoken word and written language.
Drama is one way in which the children are able to explore the spoken language. Drama lessons encourage positive social interactions but also help to develop the children’s imagination.
We aim to foster an enthusiasm for, and love of, reading. We encourage children to read for pleasure. Reading skills are acquired by initially drawing literal information from text to developing higher level comprehension skills, such as deduction and insight: the older pupils are encouraged to analyse text and comment upon plots and characters involved in narrative.
Pupils are given the opportunity to write for a variety of audiences and genres, structuring text in an appropriate and organised style. Precise vocabulary is used wherever possible to enhance meaning – with older pupils beginning to introduce stylistic devices to further engage the reader.
Weekly spellings tests are conducted. These spellings include regular and irregular spelling patterns which helps encourage a rich vocabulary and promote an interest in words and their meanings.
The importance of fluent, cursive and neat handwriting is fostered using traditional pens as is the ability to use punctuation and grammar accurately and effectively.
We promote the children’s interest in English through the celebration of special days such as World Book Day and National Poetry Day.