English Curriculum

At Highfield Primary School we believe that a quality English curriculum should develop children’s love of reading, writing and discussion and expose them to a variety of high-quality texts and stimuli, as well as frequent, purposeful opportunities to practise and review key skills and knowledge. 

Our English curriculum is designed to enable all children to:

• read easily, fluently and with good understanding
• develop the habit of reading widely and often, for both pleasure and information
• acquire a wide vocabulary, an understanding of grammar and knowledge of linguistic conventions for reading, writing and spoken language
• appreciate our rich and varied literary heritage
• write clearly, accurately and coherently, adapting language and style for a range of contexts, purposes and audiences
• use discussion in order to learn, showing an ability to elaborate and explain clearly their understanding and ideas
• become competent in the arts of speaking and listening, making formal presentations, demonstrating to others and participating in debate

These aims are embedded across our English lessons and in the wider curriculum, where expectations of writing (including handwriting) are consistently high and children continue to develop speaking and listening skills while also being presented with a range of inspiring reading materials.

English is taught over several lessons every day and has the most time dedicated to it of any curriculum area. As well as daily reading (Phonics/Shared Reading) lessons, writing lessons (‘The Write Stuff’) and discrete teaching of spelling and handwriting, the teaching of English is embedded across the curriculum.

We hope that as our children move on from us to further their education and learning that their creativity, passion for English and high aspirations continue to grow and develop as they do.

Ultimately, our aim is that our children build the essential reading, writing and speaking and listening skills needed for a happy and fulfilling life.