English

Our overall aim in English is to foster a love of reading and language.

Throughout the school we expose the children to a wide range of literature. Poetry, plays, classical and modern literature and works of non-fiction are included to extend knowledge and stimulate imagination. Thus, the children are able to explore a variety of writing styles and from this their own individual style develops. In addition, by sharing class readers with the children, reading development can be monitored past the stage of independent reading.

With writing, our aim is to develop confident, independent writers so that by Year 3 the children have the knowledge and skills to begin to correct their own work.  At this stage the correct use of grammar, spelling and punctuation become increasingly important and are taught both formally and wherever possible using extracts from children's literature.  Once the children are writing independently at length they are encouraged to develop appropriate, individual styles when writing for different purposes.  Valuing the child's own ideas is the route to confidence in creative writing and writing for practical purposes.

Confidence in expressing ideas and opinions is encouraged throughout the school.  Small classes ensure that there is always time to listen to the children and for them to contribute.  Our assemblies give opportunities for involvement in discussion and debate and for performance in front of an accepting audience.  Drama lessons also allow children to experience working together in small groups developing the ability to listen to others and sharing ideas and opinions. 

Children's progress is monitored regularly and discussed with parents so that any difficulties are recognised at an early stage and appropriate action taken.  Occasionally, this may involve external assessment and a programme of individual support being established.