Introduction
"The overarching aim for English in the national curriculum is to promote high standards of language and literacy by equipping pupils with a strong command of the spoken and written language, and to develop their love of literature through widespread reading for enjoyment." (The National Curriculum 2014)
English covers all aspects of speaking, listening, reading and writing.
At St Chad’s, we recognise effect that a confident, fluent and coherent understanding of English will have on a child's progress, both inside and outside of the school environment. As a school, we have a diverse intake of children who between them speak many different languages. Whilst we value all languages, our aim is for all children to develop the necessary skills to become effective users of the English language. Therefore, the development of language and literacy skills is of the highest priority and is interwoven into our whole school curriculum design.
The Early Years Foundation Stage Framework (Nursery/Reception) and the Key Stage 1 National Curriculum (Year 1/Year 2) provides us with a basis of the essential knowledge and skills that our children will learn and acquire throughout their time at St Chad's.
English is taught during discrete reading and writing lessons and throughout every curriculum area. Our curriculum design for English encompasses writing practice, including handwriting, spelling, widening vocabulary, and writing for different styles, purposes, and audiences, as well as focussing on spoken English, reading, grammar and pronunciation. Children are taught in mixed ability groups for English and ability groups for phonics.
Reading and Phonics are given the highest priority in our curriculum, as the ability to read and understand opens up learning for all children in all areas. We believe that the development of children's vocabulary is a vital tool in learning and understanding the full language. Our use of Talk for Writing across the school further develops these skills.
The English skills that are developed in English lessons are applied to and in every lesson that is conducted in accordance to the national curriculum. For example, in maths children will learn and acquire new mathematical vocabulary; in science, they will undertake research and present their findings, both verbally and in writing. English skills are fundamental for oral expression. Effective English skills will ensure a child feels confident taking part in group tasks and class discussion/performance. Theme work is linked to a high-quality text to further provide a relevant stimulus for speaking, reading and writing.