At Leigh Primary School, we follow the national curriculum. 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 word, and to develop their love of literature through widespread reading for enjoyment. The national curriculum for English aims to ensure that all pupils:

• 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 their language and style in and for a range of contexts, purposes and audiences
• use discussion in order to learn; they should be able to elaborate and explain clearly their understanding and ideas
• are competent in the arts of speaking and listening, making formal presentations, demonstrating to others and participating in debate.

Phonics and Early Reading and Writing

At Leigh Primary School we teach phonics, early reading and writing through the Read Write Inc programme. Read Write Inc is a structured programme, that teaches children from a young age, to read accurately and fluently with good comprehension. The children learn to form each letter, spell correctly, and compose their ideas step-by-step. Children are exposed to the Read Write Inc programme from Nursery; we aim that all children have completed the programme by the end of Key Stage One. Children in Year One, will also take part in the statuary 'Phonics Screening Check', during the summer term. Those children who need additional support may undertake phonic based interventions, during Key Stage Two. You can find out more about the Read Write Inc programme here.