English

English: Intent, Implementation and Impact

Intent

Our English curriculum is ambitious, knowledge-rich and inclusive, ensuring all pupils develop strong reading, writing and oracy skills as an entitlement. We set high expectations so that pupils learn to speak, read and write like experts, building powerful vocabulary, secure language structures and a love of literature. Through carefully sequenced learning, pupils develop the communication skills and cultural capital needed to succeed as confident learners and responsible citizens.

Implementation

English is taught through a well-sequenced curriculum that builds progressively in phonics, reading comprehension, writing composition and transcription skills. Literacy and oracy are at the heart of all learning, with explicit teaching of vocabulary, modelling of high-quality outcomes and structured opportunities for purposeful talk. Teaching is underpinned by Rosenshine’s Principles, with regular retrieval of prior learning, clear explanations, guided practice and frequent checks for understanding. Lessons are adapted to meet the needs of all pupils, including those with SEND, through scaffolding, differentiation and repetition of basic skills, while maintaining high expectations. Assessment and feedback is rigorous and aligned to curriculum intent.

Impact

Pupils become confident, articulate speakers, readers and writers, who can express ideas clearly and thoughtfully, using appropriate subject-specific vocabulary. They read widely, write with increasing accuracy and purpose, and demonstrate strong comprehension, reasoning and oracy skills. Pupils exceed national age-related expectations at the end of KS2, develop positive reading identities and are well-prepared for the next stage of education as reflective, resilient and engaged learners.