English – Curriculum intention

The writing curriculum at Thoresby Primary School covers all aspects of the EYFS framework and the National Curriculum.

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/national-curriculum-in-england-english-programmes-of-study/national-curriculum-in-england-english-programmes-of-study 

We see writing as a crucial element of English and as an essential foundation for success in all other subjects. It is essential that pupils gain the skill of language to be able to participate full as members of society. 

 Our aim is that our pupils will be able to; 

  • Write at length using correct spelling, grammar and punctuation. 
  • Write confidently across a range of genres.  

Our writing curriculum focuses on; 

Transcription – so that pupils become fluent in handwriting and spelling. 

Composition – so that pupils are able to articulate their ideas and structure them in speech and writing. 

We recognise the importance of nurturing a culture where children take pride in their writing, can write clearly and accurately and adapt their language and style to suit the context and audience.  

Implementation 

Children arrive at Thoresby at all stages in their education and from every area of the world. We have a clearly defined writing curriculum pathway that ensures they are swiftly assessed to establish their bespoke needs.  

Pupils are taught writing through a carefully thought-out teaching sequence that is adapted for each key stage.  We draw from the basic principles of Talk 4 Writing techniques, setting a context for writing that builds excitement and anticipation. Model texts are shared and explored with pupils, establishing the features of the genre, clear success criteria and writing techniques. Grammar and punctuation skills are taught discretely within the sequence before pupils plan and draft their own work. Precise and effective feedback enables pupils to extend their writing skills and offer ample opportunities to apply their new learning. 

In EYFS, planned opportunities support the development of writing and pre-writing skill acquisition for example, speaking and listening activities, tasks that develop fine and gross motor skills and activities exploring media and materials. Pupils are exposed to basic marks of punctuation, as a pre-load for using it correctly by the end of key stage 1. Pupils learn to read and write high frequency words and words with phases 2, 3 and 4 graphemes so they can write and spell these by the end of the year.  

In KS1, pupils develop their letter formation through learning the pre-cursive script, beginning to join letters in words in line with demonstrating readiness through handwriting sessions. Pupils are exposed to a range of genres and build stamina in writing, using the correct basic marks of punctuation. They write an increasing amount of sentences with their growing vocabulary. Spelling is taught through daily phonics lessons focusing on segmenting to spell, during the modelled writing lessons. Pupils build on their composition of several sentences to produce more sustained examples of writing in both fiction and non-fiction genres.  

In KS2, pupils are required to write with a fluent and joined style of handwriting. Grammar is planned and taught progressively within the teaching of specific genres of writing. Spelling is taught discretely. In daily literacy lessons pupils are taught the requisite skills to write competently across a broader range of genres with purpose.  

We love Thoresby. Both of our girls go there and have had a fantastic time. It is very supportive and nurturing.

Parents evening feedback

Our daughter started Thoresby in September 2018 – she has grown in confidence and the support from her teachers is constant. We are very happy with everything the school offers and provides.

Parents evening feedback

My children are very happy at school.

Parents evening feedback

I would like to say that both our children – daughter in year 4 and son in year 6, enjoy attending their lessons and their topics they are being taught.

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Thoresby gives us opportunities to spend time with the coaches and develop our sports skills.

Children's comments

I feel the school is a blessing for parents who have the opportunity to send their kids here as they provide the best education and pastoral care possible.

Parents evening feedback

Thoresby is an amazing school and the best aspect of the school are the brilliant selfless teachers who put the children at the forefront of everything.

Parents evening feedback

Thoresby has been brilliant for my boys, really supportive and encouraging.

Parents evening feedback

My daughter enjoys all aspects of school life, she involves herself in many activities and represents the school in various team sports. We are pleased with all her progress.

Parents evening feedback

Thoresby gives me the opportunity to have a great education. The topics are great!

Children's comments

I adore the nursery and the different learning areas. I really appreciate the kitchen making specials treats and meals for children with allergies.

Parents evening feedback

I am proud to be part of the Thoresby community.

Children's comments

Thoresby is a brilliant school and my kids love coming here.

Parents evening feedback

This school offers varied education in an environment with so many children from so many parts of the world, and do it very well you see happy smiling children every day! Hats off to this school!

Parents evening feedback

All three of my children have been taught at Thoresby with my youngest leaving this year. I have fond memories of Thoresby over the years and found staff helpful and very supportive.

Parents evening feedback

My daughter has been coming here since nursery and has always loved the school, she is doing really well in all her subjects and I couldn’t be happier with her progress.

Parents evening feedback

Our son is absolutely thriving at Thoresby. He has really got on well with his teachers and enjoyed lessons. If asked he would say the dinners are best but his progress speaks for itself. Thank you.

Parents evening feedback

My daughter is making great progress at Thoresby. Overall I am very pleased with every aspect.

Parents evening feedback

My son has loved attending Thoresby. He takes the Thoresby values with him and has turned into a lovely boy. I know the school has contributed to him.

Parents evening feedback

My daughter really loves going to Thoresby. She is doing brilliantly and I am beyond grateful that she goes to such a good school.

Parents evening feedback

My daughter started in September and she has flourished. Not only in an academic sense but in terms of her social skills and her open-mindedness to others – it’s been a fantastic experience for her!

Parents evening feedback

Both of my daughters have thrived since coming to Thoresby. I am so pleased with their progress.

Parents evening feedback

Thoresby gives me the opportunity to have a great education. The topics are great!

Children's comments

Thoresby is a special place.

Children's comments

My son and daughter are both very happy at Thoresby. The staff are approachable and helpful and the children are offered a good variety of different opportunities.

Parents evening feedback

Thoresby management team ensure that the school is inclusive and forward thinking. I have always been impressed by the way this school is run and continue to be – especially their dedication to child protection and wellbeing programmes.

Parents evening feedback

Thoresby is amazing! Everyone is made to feel welcome and part of the community. I’m so happy that my son gets to attend this school.

Parents evening feedback

The teachers are supportive, honest and provide help and encouragement to all needs of the children and parents.

Parents evening feedback

It’s a great school. My child is settled and any problems are dealt with quickly.

Parents evening feedback

Thoresby helps us to learn that we are all unique and special in our own way.

Children's comments

The support from the teaching staff is very good and the pastoral care of our children, especially when needed for our son. Overall very positive.

Parents evening feedback

Everybody is welcome at Thoresby.

Children's comments

Thorersby combines academics, crafts and sport to bring out the best in their students. Good Job!

Parents evening feedback

Excellent communication from the school. Amiable, knowledgeable and caring staff. A strong school with an impressive ethos.

Parents evening feedback

It has a really supportive, friendly and relaxed atmosphere. It is inclusive and family orientated.

Parents evening feedback

Our son has been coming here for 8 years. He will be doing his SATs soon. He loves coming here and loves the food. He has so many friends and loves all his classes too. He gets on well with everybody and all his teachers have been brilliant with him. Thoresby is a good school.

Parents evening feedback

We are very happy with Thoresby, lovely staff and teachers.

Parents evening feedback

The outside area is so much fun!

Children's comments

I think Thoresby is a very good school. My boys always enjoy coming to school. The teachers are very helpful ad friendly.

Parents evening feedback

I think Thoresby is an amazing school. The teachers are approachable and my son loves school.

Parents evening feedback

Thoresby gives me the opportunity to have a great education. The topics are great!

Children's comments

We are lucky to have Kaleidoscope every year! We learn so much and everyone comes together for a celebration.

Children's comments

Exceptional! So supportive. Staff go above and beyond for both of my children and it is much appreciated.

Parents evening feedback

My daughter has had a fantastic education at Thoresby and her teachers have supported her emotional development as well.

Parents evening feedback