English
English
At Birch Hill Primary School, we believe that strong communication, reading and writing skills are essential to children's success in school and beyond. Our English curriculum develops children's spoken language, reading, writing, grammar and vocabulary, enabling children to communicate confidently and effectively in a range of contexts.
We aim to foster a love of reading and writing by exposing children to high-quality texts, rich vocabulary and meaningful opportunities to express themselves creatively and purposefully. Through carefully planned lessons and cross-curricular links, children develop the knowledge and skills needed to become fluent readers, thoughtful writers and articulate speakers.
Early Reading and Phonics
Learning to read is a priority at Birch Hill.
In Reception and Key Stage 1, children learn to read through the Read Write Inc. (RWI) phonics programme. This systematic approach teaches children to recognise, blend and segment sounds, helping them become fluent and confident readers. Reading books are carefully matched to children's phonics knowledge and regular assessment ensures that all children receive the support they need to succeed.
Reading
Reading is at the heart of our curriculum.
As children become fluent readers and no longer require phonics teaching, they access our Master Reader approach. Through daily reading lessons, children develop reading fluency, comprehension, vocabulary and critical thinking skills through a rich range of fiction, non-fiction and poetry.
We encourage children to discuss texts, justify their opinions and make connections between authors, themes and ideas.
Reading for Pleasure
We strive to develop lifelong readers who read widely and regularly for both pleasure and purpose.
Reading for pleasure is promoted through:
- High-quality class texts and daily class readers
- Reading challenges and events
- Author visits and workshops
- World Book Day celebrations
- Opportunities for children to share and recommend books
We work closely with parents and carers to encourage reading at home.
Writing
At Birch Hill, we use the Talk for Writing approach to develop confident and successful writers. Through the stages of Imitation, Innovation and Independent Application, children learn how effective texts are constructed before applying their skills within their own writing.
Children are immersed in high-quality texts and engaging experiences that inspire purposeful writing. Teachers use modelled writing, discussion, oral rehearsal and guided practice to support children in developing as independent writers.
Handwriting
Handwriting is taught using the Nelson Handwriting Scheme, helping children develop a fluent, legible and joined handwriting style.
Spelling, Grammar and Punctuation
Spelling is taught through the Read Write Inc. Spelling programme, building on children's phonics knowledge and developing their understanding of spelling patterns and rules.
Grammar and punctuation are taught explicitly and applied across a range of writing tasks and curriculum subjects.
Speaking and Listening
Spoken language underpins all learning. Children are encouraged to discuss, explain, debate and present ideas, helping them become confident communicators who can express themselves clearly and effectively.
Enrichment
Children's enthusiasm for literacy is enhanced through a range of opportunities including:
- World Book Day
- Author visits
- Reading challenges
- Poetry and storytelling activities
Supporting Reading and Writing at Home
Parents and carers can access reading lists, phonics guidance, grammar information, writing expectations and curriculum overviews through the Parent Guides on each class page.
Impact
By the time children leave Birch Hill, they are confident readers, writers and communicators who are well prepared for secondary education and beyond. They leave with a love of reading, a rich vocabulary and the ability to express themselves clearly, creatively and purposefully.
National Curriculum English Programme of Study