Writing is a primary means of expression and communication.  By the end of Year 6, we want our pupils to be confident in writing effectively for any given purpose. Through our carefully sequenced approach to writing, pupils are taught the technical skills to write with fluency and accuracy. Our creative approach nurtures the imagination and encourages children to write for pleasure inspired by their own interests.

Children are immersed in Talk for Writing from Reception to Year 6. The three phases (Imitation, Innovation and Independent Application) mean that children are explicitly taught how to compose stories using the full range of story structures (e.g. warning tales) and how to create certain effects (e.g. suspense) in their writing. The same process applies to the teaching of non-fiction writing. Children explore quality model texts, and draw upon their structure and language to create their own pieces of writing. Teachers act as expert models of the writing process in daily shared writing sessions and there are regular opportunities for children’s writing and ideas to be shared, displayed and celebrated.

Talk for Writing lessons at Southill are lively, multi-sensory and inclusive for all. Everyone joins in and can succeed. As soon as children are able to form most letters correctly and have a good pencil grip, we teach a fluent and legible handwriting style that empowers children to write with confidence and creativity in line with our Handwriting Policy. We encourage children to ‘have a go’ at writing as soon as possible and to use their phonic skills and knowledge to spell.

Following on from the school’s phonics programme, children from Year 2 to 6 are taught discrete spelling lessons using No Nonsense Spelling programme.