We believe that the use of good quality texts can be very beneficial for modelling writing. Therefore, we focus on the link between reading and writing to provide children with rich opportunities.

Handwriting

Within the Read Write Inc. Handwriting programme, children first develop secure letter formation, correct sizing and accurate positioning on the line. Once these foundational skills are established, they are introduced to a more mature handwriting style that prepares them for joining by teaching letters with entry and exit strokes. Joined handwriting is then taught progressively through explicit instruction in diagonal and horizontal joins. This structured approach ensures that children develop fluency, consistency and legibility, enabling them to write confidently and efficiently as they move through Key Stage 2.

Spelling

At St Joseph’s, we use Read, Write Inc to teach children Phonics across EYFS, KS1 and beyond. Children will learn to spell decodable words and common exception words once they can identify them in their reading. We also use the Read, Write Inc Spelling scheme of work from Year 2 upwards to provide a consistent, challenging and appropriate level of spelling for each year group.

Vocabulary

Through our strong focus on reading, we enrich children's vocabulary by engaging them with high-quality texts, use of shared and modelled writing and ensuring that children are provided with regular opportunities to help them to choose language that matches the tone and genre of their writing.

Spelling, Punctuation and Grammar

At St Joseph’s, we have developed a Place Value of Grammar document that is carefully aligned with the expectations of the National Curriculum. This progression document identifies the key grammatical knowledge and skills to be taught within each year group and builds upon them systematically, ensuring clear progression and increasing complexity over time. Teachers use the document to inform planning, enabling grammar to be taught in a structured and coherent way that supports pupils in developing secure, long-term understanding. As a result, children continually revisit, apply and deepen their grammatical knowledge throughout their journey at St Joseph’s.