Writing
Children at Great Wood write for a wide range of purposes and audiences. Building strong foundational skills, children are given explicit handwriting instruction, taught transcriptions skills and there is an initial focus on developing the quality of writing and not the length. English lessons follow a structured ‘read to write’ sequence, where high-quality texts provide a model for writing and inspiration for ideas.
Teaching is adapted to support all learners in developing their writing skills. Before writing, children are given opportunities to rehearse sentences orally, often using actions, repetition or discussion to embed language structures. Teachers model the writing process explicitly, demonstrating how to make choices about vocabulary, sentence structure and organisation.
Learning is broken down into manageable steps, with opportunities for children to practise, reflect and improve their work. Visual prompts, working walls and shared vocabulary displays support independence by providing accessible reminders of key skills and language.
Classrooms foster a supportive environment where all children can feel confident to experiment with their writing, understanding that mistakes are part of the learning process. Through ongoing feedback and live marking, teachers guide pupils in refining and improving their work.
Writing is recognised and celebrated during termly whole-school assemblies, where pupils are acknowledged for both their effort and their achievements.
Link to spelling page Spelling
Handwriting Handwriting Policy Letter formation patterns Supporting pencil grip
At Great Wood, we recognise the importance of fluent, legible handwriting. Through the Penpals Handwriting Scheme, children are taught correct letter formation from an early stage before progressing to joined handwriting.
Teaching is adapted to ensure that ALL pupils can develop their handwriting skills, with additional opportunities to practise provided alongside other supportive strategies. High expectations for presentation encourage children to take pride in their work.
Progression of Key Learning in Writing