English At Wold Newton Foundation School
Intent
At Wold Newton Foundation School, our aim is for every child to become a confident reader, writer and communicator who enjoys language and understands its power. We want pupils to develop a love of reading, to explore high‑quality texts and authors, and to build the skills they need to read fluently and with understanding. We also want children to feel proud of their writing, to express themselves clearly and creatively, and to understand how writing can inform, entertain and persuade. Our English curriculum is designed so that all pupils can access learning, make progress and develop the knowledge and skills they need for the next stage of their education. We make meaningful links with other subjects so children can see how reading, writing and communication support learning across the curriculum and in the wider world.
Implementation
English is taught through a well‑planned, carefully sequenced curriculum that builds knowledge and skills over time. Reading sits at the heart of our approach. Early reading is supported through a structured phonics programme, helping children develop the skills they need to become fluent, confident readers. As pupils move through the school, they explore a wide range of stories, poems, non‑fiction and classic texts, developing strong comprehension skills and a rich vocabulary.
Writing is taught through engaging units that give children clear purposes for writing. Pupils learn how to plan, draft, edit and improve their work, and they are introduced to a range of genres so they can write for different audiences. Grammar, punctuation and spelling are taught progressively and applied in meaningful contexts. Speaking and listening are woven throughout lessons, with opportunities for discussion, drama, presentations and performances helping pupils develop confidence and clarity in their communication.
Our progression documents guide teachers in ensuring that learning builds year on year. Lessons are enriched with high‑quality texts, purposeful writing opportunities and regular chances for pupils to share their work. We also celebrate reading and writing through whole‑school events, themed days and author‑based activities that help bring English to life.
Impact
By the end of each key stage, pupils will know more, remember more and be able to do more in English. They will have a secure understanding of key reading and writing skills, a growing vocabulary and the confidence to express themselves in different ways. Children will be able to read with increasing fluency and understanding, write with accuracy and creativity, and communicate clearly in both spoken and written forms.
We check progress through listening to pupils read, talking to them about their learning, looking at their written work and observing how well they apply their skills across the curriculum. This helps us understand how effectively pupils are developing as readers, writers and communicators, and how we can continue to strengthen their journey through English.
