Writing at Our School

At our school, we are committed to developing confident, skilled, and enthusiastic writers. Writing is taught progressively from EYFS to Year 6, with a consistent approach to writing, spelling, and handwriting that ensures every child builds the skills they need to succeed.

Spelling

In EYFS and KS1, we use the Twinkl Phonics Scheme, which provides a structured progression of phonics learning, helping children to:

Develop secure letter-sound knowledge.

Apply phonics in their reading and writing.

Learn and practise tricky words appropriate to their stage.

The scheme includes a ‘Read, Write, Apply’ approach, giving children multiple ways to engage with and consolidate their spelling learning. In KS2, children follow the Twinkl Spelling Scheme, which builds on earlier phonics knowledge to teach spelling rules, patterns, and common exception words. The scheme provides clear weekly objectives, exercises, and opportunities to apply spelling in context, supporting independent and confident writing.

Weekly spelling practice, both in school and at home, reinforces these skills, while ongoing formative assessment ensures that children who need extra support receive early intervention. High expectations for spelling are maintained across all written work, including in foundation subjects, so children consistently apply their knowledge.

Handwriting

Handwriting is taught using the Twinkl Cursive Handwriting Scheme, which provides a step-by-step progression from letter formation to fluent, joined handwriting.

In EYFS and KS1, children focus on:

Correct letter formation, sizing, spacing, and pencil grip.

Understanding ascenders, descenders, capital letters, and numbers.

In KS2, the scheme develops continuous cursive handwriting, supporting fluency, legibility, and speed. Lessons include daily practice, teacher modelling, and immediate feedback to help children refine their skills.

Writing

For writing, all classes follow the Essential Writing Scheme, a progressive, text-based programme designed to develop writing skills step by step. The scheme provides:

Carefully sequenced units based on high-quality texts.

Clear learning objectives for each lesson.

Opportunities for children to develop composition, vocabulary, grammar, punctuation, and editing skills.

Guidance for teachers to adapt lessons to meet the needs of all pupils.

Children record their work in English books, with a focus on clear presentation and pride in their learning. Misconceptions are addressed promptly, either in whole-class teaching or through targeted support, to ensure strong progress.

At our school, these schemes work together to create a cohesive, structured, and supportive approach to writing. They ensure every child develops confidence, creativity, and independence as a writer, leaving our school equipped with the skills and enthusiasm to express themselves effectively across the curriculum.