English
OUR JOURNEY THROUGH ENGLISH
Distinctive Christian Character
"In the beginning ... God said" {Genesis 1)
The God of the Bible is a communicating God who reveals Himself through
His words. Throughout Scripture we see God speaking and making Himself
known, most clearly through His Son Jesus. As Hebrews 1 reminds us, "In the
past God spoke ... in various ways, but in these last days He has spoken to us
by His Son."
At the heart of our approach is the belief that the Bible tells the story of God's
ongoing relationship with humanity. As children develop their understanding
and reading skills, they learn to engage with the Bible in ways that are
appropriate to their age and experience. Through this process they come to
know Jesus, the living Word, and discover more about God's character, His
purposes for the world and what it means to live life in all its fullness.
Phonics
Intended Curriculum
We aim for every child to develop a strong foundation in early reading through systematic
phonics. Children learn to recognise sounds, blend them to read words and apply their
knowledge to become confident, independent readers.
Curriculum Delivery
Phonics is taught daily using Little Wandie Letters & Sounds Revised. This consistent and
structured approach ensures all children build secure decoding skills. In Reception and
Year 1, children read in small guided groups with adults where they practise decoding,
prosody and comprehension using decodable books matched to their phonics knowledge.
Impact
Children read fluently, with understanding and confidence. They develop a love of books,
read for pleasure and information, and use reading as a tool for learning in every subject.
Progress is monitored through ongoing assessment to ensure all pupils are supported
and challenged appropriately.
Intended Curriculum
We aim for every child to write with accuracy, purpose and imagination. Writing helps
children communicate ideas clearly and creatively while developing pride in their work.
Curriculum Delivery
Writing lessons are inspired by high-quality texts, with some sequences supported by
Literacy Tree planning. Children explore stories, non-fiction and poetry, analysing how
authors use language to engage readers.
Each writing sequence includes planning, drafting, revising and publishing, helping pupils
understand the full writing process. Grammar, punctuation, spelling and handwriting are
taught in focused sessions, giving children the tools to write effectively for different
purposes.
Impact
Children become confident writers who can express themselves clearly and creatively.
They use accurate grammar and spelling, write for varied audiences and take pride in
their finished work. Assessment and feedback ensure every child progresses and achieves
their potential.
Writing
Intended Curriculum
We believe strong speaking and listening skills underpin all areas of learning. Our aim is
for children to communicate clearly, listen attentively and express ideas with confidence.
Curriculum Delivery
Children take part in structured discussions, presentations and collaborative activities
across the curriculum. Oracy is prioritised in every classroom, with pupils encouraged and
supported to use accurate and appropriate vocabulary to articulate their thinking.
Impact
Children speak and listen with confidence in a range of situations. They build vocabulary,
deepen understanding and develop the ability to communicate effectively both in school
and beyond. Ongoing observation and assessment ensure all pupils are supported to grow
as articulate and thoughtful communicators.
Speaking and Listening