The value of English in the curriculum ? What can I say ? Without English , nothing. And without good English, nothing very well.

(Anne Fine, Author)

The importance of good English teaching is integral to achievement across the curriculum. At Our Lady's we have an enviable reputation for excellent English teaching, which is confirmed by our SATS test results.

In Reception years the children participate in the literacy Hour from the start of the Autumn term with the main focus being phonics. Year 1 children have daily literacy lessons, which involves the whole class sharing a piece of writing or a text, with the teacher, whilst learning the skills of phonics and punctuation . As well as this, throughout Key Stage One, their teacher listens to them read regularly and parents are encouraged to continue this practice at home. Good communication is supported through the home/school diary.

Throughout Key Stage Two children are introduced to a wide range of text types which are supported in using similar skills in their own writing, modelling and good practice. children are given the opportunity to develop their free writing skills, whilst also being taught the basic components of grammar and punctuation, to aid this process. Spelling tests. Drama is a valued as means of communication and often involves cross-curriculum links, especially with RE and History. children are encouraged to develop their own reading preferences and to record these in their own Reading diaries.

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