Intent

At Leechpool, we aim to develop confident readers, articulate speakers, and skilled writers who can communicate with accuracy and purpose. We place a strong emphasis on early reading and phonics, recognising these as the foundation for success across the curriculum. Our curriculum promotes a love of reading and writing, exposing pupils to a wide range of high-quality texts and genres. Children are supported to build a strong grasp of vocabulary, grammar and authorial intent, enabling them to read and write with clarity, fluency and creativity.

Implementation

English is taught daily in every year group, with phonics delivered consistently through Song of Sounds in EYFS and KS1. This transitions into a structured, fluency-based reading approach in KS2, where deliberate instruction in vocabulary, choral and echo reading, and prosody underpins reading comprehension. Writing follows a clear whole-school sequence: immerse, model, draft, edit and publish — with grammar and sentence structure woven throughout. Spelling, handwriting and transcription are taught systematically through schemes such as No Nonsense Spelling and Penpals, while all children are given regular opportunities for extended and independent writing. Targeted support is in place for the lowest 20% of readers.

Impact

Pupils leave Leechpool with secure phonics knowledge, fluent and expressive reading skills, and the ability to write for a range of purposes with increasing independence. They use ambitious vocabulary, accurate grammar, and clear structure in their work. Assessment is carefully planned, with phonics screening in Year 1, termly grammar and spelling assessments, and consistent writing moderation across the school. Monitoring and pupil voice reflect growing confidence, improved outcomes, and a shared culture of reading and writing as powerful tools for learning and expression.

For further information about English, click here.