Intent 

At Milstead and Frinstead C of E School, we firmly believe that English lies at the core of our curriculum. The ability of our pupils to command reading and writing is paramount, serving as the key to unlocking all areas of the curriculum. Our English curriculum is designed not only to provide learners with the essential skills required to access various subjects but also to cultivate an intrinsic desire and passion for literature, both in reading and in writing.

Implementation 

The writing component of our curriculum hinges on a text-based approach, which effectively contextualises learning while simultaneously reducing cognitive load. We assert that reading is the vehicle for writing; it fuels engagement and enthusiasm among pupils. To this end, we incorporate an array of texts, ensuring exposure to a broad spectrum of authors and genres. This variety allows pupils to explore writing for multiple purposes and audiences, thereby giving context and meaning to their writing tasks.

Central to our teaching philosophy is the development of automaticity in transcription—spelling and handwriting—enabling pupils to focus on composition, including sentence structure, the formation of ideas, and the organisation of their thoughts. Instruction is provided to guide students through the processes of planning for writing, crafting texts tailored for specific purposes and audiences, and engaging in critical reflection on their work via snapshot assessment tools. This systematically enhances their ability to edit and improve upon their written expression.

Our lesson structure adheres to a formative cycle comprising revisit, teach, practice, and apply. This framework not only reinforces prior learning but also ensures that new concepts are effectively grasped and applied by pupils. Within this structure, we aim to create a conducive environment for learning that embodies our vision for writing— one that commits to fostering a compassionate and nurturing community. By maintaining a holistic approach, we seek to ensure that each individual grows, not merely as a proficient writer but as an integral member of a collective.

We wholeheartedly recognise the importance of collaborative learning and strive to meet the diverse needs of all our students, maximising every opportunity and ensuring that no moment of learning is wasted. Through our pedagogical practices, we decidedly aim to empower inquisitive stewards of the future who will make positive contributions to society.

Rooted in Christian values, such as Compassion, Stewardship, Inquiry, and Resilience, our writing curriculum is designed to be inclusive and contextualised. We aim to forge connections with prior learning and, when possible, integrate with other areas of the curriculum to further reduce cognitive load. The implementation of this curriculum is facilitated by our robust teaching and learning policy, which has been meticulously crafted to uphold high expectations for every pupil while simultaneously mitigating cognitive overload.

Impact 

In summary, we are dedicated to creating an enriching educational environment that not only supports every child's journey towards achieving their full potential but also nurtures their growth as thoughtful, engaged members of our society. Our vision for the English curriculum encapsulates this commitment, as we strive to inspire and empower our pupils to embrace the world of literature with enthusiasm and confidence.