English

The overarching aim for English in the national curriculum is to promote high standards of language and literacy by equipping pupils with a strong command of the spoken and written word, and to develop their love of literature through widespread reading for enjoyment.  

The national curriculum for English aims to ensure that all pupils:  

• read easily, fluently and with good understanding  
• develop the habit of reading widely and often, for both pleasure and information  
• acquire a wide vocabulary, an understanding of grammar and knowledge of linguistic conventions for reading, writing and spoken language  
• appreciate our rich and varied literary heritage 
• write clearly, accurately and coherently, adapting their language and style in and for a range of contexts, purposes and audiences  
• use discussion in order to learn; they should be able to elaborate and explain clearly their understanding and ideas  
• are competent in the arts of speaking and listening, making formal presentations, demonstrating to others and participating in debate. 

In addition to the NC aims, our English curriculum contributes to our overall curriculum aims to support children to: Foster a positive and caring attitude to others, become effective learners, are prepared with the skills, knowledge and understanding for the next stage in their school life and feel secure and live a healthy and safe life.  

The golden thread running through the English curriculum from Nursery to Year 6 is to: read broadly and write for a purpose.