Hale CE Primary School- Curriculum Design- English 

Our vision is founded on Matthew 5: 14-16

“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house.  In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:14-16)

At Hale CE Primary School, we believe that English is fundamental to children’s success across the whole curriculum and plays a vital role in enabling them to communicate confidently, think critically and express themselves clearly. Through a carefully structured and ambitious English curriculum, we inspire pupils to “Be the Light” by developing confident speakers, engaged readers, and independent, capable writers.

Writing is taught using Ready Steady Write, an evidence-based, whole-school writing programme built around high-quality, language-rich texts. The programme provides a clear, sequenced writing journey from EYFS through to Key Stage 2, ensuring consistent progression in composition, vocabulary, grammar and transcription. High expectations for written accuracy are embedded from the outset, with pupils taught that effective writing relies on secure foundations in sentence structure, grammar and punctuation, alongside creativity and purpose.

Be Ready

Be Respectful

Be Responsible

An English curriculum that equips pupils with the language, literacy and oracy skills needed to access learning across all subjects. Through systematic teaching of reading, writing and spoken language, pupils develop a secure command of vocabulary, grammar and text structures, ensuring they are prepared for future learning and lifelong communication.

An English curriculum that promotes respectful communication, active listening and appreciation of diverse voices. Pupils are exposed to a wide range of high-quality texts and are encouraged to express ideas clearly, listen attentively and respond thoughtfully. Through discussion, debate and collaborative learning, children learn to value different perspectives and use language responsibly and inclusively.

An English curriculum that encourages pupils to take ownership of their spoken and written communication. Pupils are supported to edit and improve their work, make thoughtful language choices, and adapt their writing for different audiences and purposes. This helps children develop confidence, accuracy and pride in their work, empowering them to use English responsibly in school and beyond.

Curriculum Approach

English at Hale CE Primary School is delivered through a coherent, well-sequenced curriculum that integrates reading, writing, vocabulary and spoken language. Writing is taught using Ready Steady Write, an evidence-based programme designed to develop confident, independent writers from EYFS through to Key Stage 2.

Ready Steady Write places high-quality, language-rich texts at the centre of learning and follows a consistent teaching sequence that enables pupils to:

• Immerse themselves in rich literature

• Analyse model texts and language features

• Plan writing effectively

• Write with purpose, accuracy and confidence

The programme provides explicit teaching of grammar, vocabulary and sentence structure, alongside daily sentence accuracy work, allowing pupils to build fluency and stamina in writing over time. Writing opportunities are carefully mapped to the National Curriculum, ensuring progression and full coverage across all year groups.

Spoken language is prioritised across English lessons, with structured opportunities for discussion, rehearsal and performance. This oral foundation supports pupils’ understanding of texts and strengthens their written outcomes. Teachers adapt lessons thoughtfully to ensure all pupils, including those with SEND and EAL, can access and succeed within the English curriculum.

Impact

The impact of our English curriculum is evaluated through a range of qualitative and quantitative measures, including:

• Writing outcomes across a range of genres and purposes

• Evidence of progression in grammar, vocabulary and sentence structure

• Book scrutiny and moderation of writing

• Pupil voice demonstrating confidence, engagement and enjoyment

By the time pupils leave Hale CE Primary School, they are articulate communicators who can write clearly, accurately and creatively for a range of audiences. They demonstrate pride in their work, strong language skills and the confidence to express ideas effectively, both orally and in writing. Pupils are well prepared for the next stage of their education and equipped with essential literacy skills for life.