English Curriculum at St Mary’s Hampton
Our approach to teaching English
Across the school, we use Power of Reading as the foundation for our English curriculum. Teaching follows a clear and consistent sequence that places high-quality texts at the heart of learning. Units begin with purposeful immersion in the core text through engaging activities that encourage discussion, prediction and exploration of language, allowing children to develop a secure understanding of meaning, structure and authorial intent.
Grammar and language development
Following immersion, teaching moves into a focused grammar phase where the specific language features and grammatical skills required for the final outcome are explicitly taught. Grammar, punctuation and spelling are introduced, revisited and built upon progressively from Year 1 to Year 6, ensuring that children develop a secure understanding and are able to apply their knowledge confidently and accurately in their writing. Skills are always taught in context so that grammar is meaningful and clearly linked to the text being studied.
Planning, modelling and writing for purpose
Planning and construction of written work are carefully supported, with a strong emphasis on oral composition and clear teacher modelling throughout the process. Children are encouraged to talk through ideas, rehearse sentences aloud and consider vocabulary choices before writing. Every piece of work is created with a clear audience and purpose in mind, and children are supported to work backwards from the final outcome, identifying the key features needed to produce an effective and high-quality piece of writing.
Assessment and progress in English
Assessment in English is ongoing and informs teaching throughout each half term. Work is assessed against National Curriculum expectations, allowing teachers to identify strengths and address gaps in learning promptly. Teaching is adapted in response to assessment to ensure that all children are supported appropriately and challenged where necessary. Progress is carefully monitored to ensure that children build on prior learning and develop increasing independence and control as writers.
English across the wider curriculum
Reading and writing are embedded across the wider curriculum to provide meaningful contexts for applying skills. Children regularly read and write for different purposes in subjects such as history, geography and science, reinforcing grammar, vocabulary and text structure while deepening subject knowledge. This approach helps children to see English as a vital and transferable skill across all areas of learning.
Promoting a love of reading and writing
St Mary’s actively promotes a love of reading and writing beyond the classroom. The school enthusiastically celebrates World Book Day, takes part in a range of reading and writing competitions and periodically welcomes author visits to inspire and motivate the children as readers and writers. These experiences help to foster enjoyment, creativity and a positive attitude towards English across the whole school.