English

English is delivered through a structured, thematic approach that supports pupils’ development in reading, writing and communication. Teaching is carefully planned to meet individual needs, ensuring pupils are appropriately supported and able to make progress from their starting points.

Pupils study a balanced curriculum that includes fiction, non-fiction and poetry. There is a strong emphasis on speaking and listening, enabling pupils to develop effective communication skills that support learning across the curriculum and preparation for adulthood.

Reading is prioritised across the school. Pupils engage with a range of texts through taught English lessons, guided reading sessions, 1:1 reading with adults and cross-curricular opportunities. Teaching focuses on developing comprehension, vocabulary and understanding of texts appropriate to pupils’ ages and abilities.

Writing is taught through structured approaches that support handwriting, spelling and composition. Where appropriate, programmes such as Kinetic Letters are used to develop fine motor control and accurate letter formation. Pupils are supported to write with increasing confidence and independence.

Phonics continues to form an integral part of English teaching up to Key Stage 3. Pupils follow the Bug Club Phonics programme, a systematic synthetic phonics programme validated by the Department for Education. Phonics teaching is delivered through regular, targeted sessions, and pupils apply their phonics knowledge through reading books matched to their current level. Opportunities for shared reading are embedded across the wider curriculum.

Overall, the English curriculum enables pupils to develop secure foundations in communication, reading and writing, preparing them effectively for progression to their post 14 pathways.