In English we enable all our pupils to recognise that language plays a fundamental role in the growth of our identity and self image, leading to human flourishing which transcends limitations and barriers.
Exposure to a rich literature and the development of high level literacy skills gives them the tools to participate as a global citizen.
English Policy
Reading Intent
Reading Curriculum Intent 2024
Writing Intent
Writing Curriculum Intent 2024
Progression Maps
Handwriting Progression Map
Phonics Progression Map
Class 1 (EYFS & Yr1)
Class 2 (Yr1 & Yr2)
Class 3 (Yr3 & Yr4)
Class 4 (Yr5 & Yr6)
At St. Mary’s, our Systematic Synthetic Phonics (SSP) Scheme is Pearson’s Phonics Bug.
Phonics Information for Parents
All you need to know about phonics – Pearson – YouTube
Phonics Pronunciation Guide & Sound board
Bug Phonics Pronunciation Guide
You Tube Video – Mr Bates Bug Club
Phonics Bug Phase 2 – Mr Bates Online
Phonics Bug Phase 3 – Mr Bates Online
Phonics Bug Phase 5 – Mr Bates Online
No Nonsense Spelling Progression
Common Exception Words
Common exception words are a group of words that appear very often in written texts and in spoken language, but which do not always follow the phonics rules and therefore cannot be decoded. In each phase, there are sets of common exception words that the children should be able to read and spell independently.
Year 1 & 2 Common Exception Words
Our school follow the Martin Harvey Handwriting Scheme.
Children take part in daily handwriting lessons which teach them not only letter formation and letter families, but also about how to sit correctly, hold their pencil correctly and about taking care and pride in the presentation of high quality written work.
Handwriting Progression Map
Handwriting Letter Formation Mat & Letter Families.
Handwriting Printable Sheets (for use at home)
Local Library Visits
Collapsed Curriculum Days
Each year, we have two whole school collapsed curriculum days, where the whole school spend the entire day immersed in reading or writing.
Here is the video link to our World Book day 2023 – Non-Fiction Writing day
Open Reading Sessions
Every year, all of our classes host ‘Open Reading’ sessions, where their family members are invited into school to come and share some quiet reading time together.