Intent

Our writing curriculum empowers pupils to build increasingly sophisticated and imaginative writing across a range of genres, contexts, and audiences. By immersing students in diverse writing experiences, we aim to provide them with the knowledge and skills needed to express themselves fluently and confidently, both in their next stage of education and throughout their lives.

Our writing curriculum is rooted in the National Curriculum, ensuring pupils meet Key Stage attainment targets while reflecting our core curriculum pillars.

Aspiring for Excellence

We strive for excellence by nurturing a love for fiction and poetry, exposing pupils to accomplished authors and high-quality texts. Our comprehensive curriculum helps pupils secure lifelong knowledge of diverse text types, including both fiction and non-fiction, building essential real-life skills. We focus on developing reading, writing, grammar, and spelling abilities through a stimulating, inclusive, and progressive approach, empowering pupils to take pride in their writing and pursue excellence.

Enriching Language and Communication

Our curriculum prioritises vocabulary development as a core element of effective writing. Pupils are encouraged to expand their vocabulary through reading analysis, grammar lessons, and independent writing. They explore the nuances of words and their relationships, and learn to adapt unfamiliar vocabulary to enhance their writing. By analysing language choices and figurative language, pupils strengthen their ability to use purposeful language with precision, building a strong foundation for effective communication.

Cultivating a Strong Community

Our writing curriculum promotes a sense of community by sharing pupils' work with parents and the local community. Texts are published and celebrated, fostering a collaborative approach to writing. We encourage students to engage with spoken-word poetry and invite local poets to work alongside them, strengthening their connection to the wider community and cultivating a sense of pride in their work.

Broadening Horizons

Our writing curriculum reinforces our commitment to British Values and Protected Characteristics. We expose pupils to a variety of multicultural texts that celebrate diversity and inclusion, promoting understanding of different cultures, traditions, and perspectives. Through a blend of fiction, non-fiction, and poetry, pupils explore moral themes, topical issues, and experiences that broaden their worldview, preparing them to engage with an ever-changing society.

Building a Knowledge-Rich Foundation

Recognising that reading is essential to becoming a proficient writer, we build on phonics and early reading skills to foster writing success. Each term, pupils are immersed in high-quality, age-appropriate texts that drive their understanding of structure, theme, and atmosphere. Through genre-specific writing techniques, multimedia approaches, and dramatic exploration, pupils are encouraged to adapt their own writing styles. Writing is taught interactively, with opportunities for paired talk, textual analysis, and collaborative activities to engage pupils in various genres.

Teachers model strong writing techniques, guiding pupils to apply grammar, punctuation, and structure purposefully in their own narratives. We emphasise drafting, amending, and peer evaluation, helping pupils refine their work and build confidence in their writing. By publishing their work, pupils take pride in their achievements and develop a deep sense of ownership over their writing journey.

Impact

By delivering a broad, balanced, and sequential writing curriculum, we aim to produce inspired communicators and enthusiastic writers. Through engaging stimulus lessons and diverse writing opportunities, pupils become inquisitive writers who can confidently read for writing, apply new vocabulary, and use genre-specific techniques. Our robust curriculum helps pupils develop their spelling, grammar, and handwriting skills while promoting a sense of pride in their writing. Ultimately, we strive to nurture articulate, confident, and effective communicators at Sunnyside Primary Academy.