Intent
Our intent is to develop confident, articulate, and creative writers through a curriculum that begins with oracy and reading. Speaking and listening underpin all writing lessons, enabling pupils to express and refine their ideas verbally before writing.
Through the deliberate teaching of oracy, pupils learn to think, speak, and write effectively, drawing on the four strands of the Oracy Framework:
- Physical – developing clear voice projection, fluency, and control when speaking.
- Linguistic – expanding vocabulary and using accurate grammar in speech and writing.
- Cognitive – structuring talk to explore, reason, and plan before writing.
- Social & Emotional – building confidence, active listening, and respect for others’ viewpoints.
Reading into writing drives all learning. High-quality texts—modern, classical, and diverse—are used to engage, inspire, and challenge pupils. Our goal is for children to “read as a writer and write as a reader.”
Pupils will:
- Develop a positive writing ethos and confidence in self-expression
- Use a wide vocabulary, accurate grammar, and spelling
- Write coherently for a range of purposes and audiences
- Communicate effectively through fluent, legible handwriting
Implementation
In Early Years and Key Stage 1, we secure foundational knowledge and oracy skills through:
- Correct pencil grip and letter formation
- Oral composition before writing (saying sentences aloud)
- Listening, turn-taking, and using talk to build and share ideas
High-quality texts and talk-rich activities, such as Drawing Club, immerse pupils in language. Vocabulary is explicitly taught, modelled, and practised through structured talk before writing. Children are also given opportunities to write for a purpose and for a real audience.
Once foundations are secure, writing follows a structured sequence:
- Deconstruct – Explore model texts through discussion; identify structure, grammar, and vocabulary.
- Model – Teachers model writing, demonstrating language choices and thought processes.
- Plan & Draft – Pupils use spoken language to plan and orally rehearse sentences before writing.
- Evaluate – Pupils use talk partners and group discussions to evaluate impact and purpose.
- Edit – Collaboratively improve accuracy, grammar, and vocabulary choices.
Publish – Present work creatively and share it orally and in writing.
Spelling
Phonics underpin spelling in EYFS and KS1. In KS2, pupils learn patterns, etymology, and morphology. Talk and discussion are used to explore rules and patterns, deepening understanding through explanation and reasoning.
Handwriting
Taught systematically from EYFS through KS2, moving from correct letter formation to fluent, joined handwriting. Presentation and pride in work are consistently reinforced.
Impact
Pupils become confident speakers and writers who can articulate, structure, and communicate ideas effectively. They see writing as a powerful form of expression and communication.