At St Vincent’s, our intention is to deliver a rich, engaging, and progressive English curriculum that enables every pupil to become a confident communicator, fluent reader, and skilled writer. We aim to ensure that all children develop a deep understanding and appreciation of the English language, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed across the curriculum and in later life.
Through a carefully sequenced curriculum, pupils are taught to read, write, speak, and listen with increasing confidence, accuracy, and independence. English learning at St Vincent’s is not confined to discrete lessons; it is embedded across all subjects to promote high standards of literacy throughout the school. Our approach combines systematic teaching, creativity, and meaningful application so that pupils can express themselves clearly, think critically, and take pride in their achievements.
Phonics forms the foundation of our English curriculum in the Early Years and Key Stage 1. Using the Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised programme, we provide a clear and structured approach to developing pupils’ decoding and blending skills. Regular reading practice sessions with Collins Big Cat fully decodable books ensure that every child experiences success, builds fluency, and develops a love of reading from the very start of their journey.
As children progress, our Reading curriculum, supported by Pathways to Read, enables pupils to explore high-quality texts that develop fluency, comprehension, and critical thinking. Through engaging whole-class reading lessons and exposure to a wide range of genres, pupils learn to read with understanding, empathy, and enjoyment. Reading is celebrated and promoted across the school to foster a culture where books and stories are valued and enjoyed.
Our Writing curriculum is designed to develop pupils as creative, accurate, and purposeful writers. We teach children to write clearly and coherently, adapting their language and style for different contexts and audiences. Grammar, punctuation, and vocabulary are taught explicitly and applied meaningfully in writing across all subjects. Pupils are encouraged to take pride in their work, reflect on their progress, and strive for excellence in presentation and expression.
Strong Spelling instruction supports accuracy and confidence in writing. Building on phonics foundations, pupils from Year 2 onwards follow Pathways to Spell, where they develop their understanding of spelling patterns, rules, and word origins. Through consistent practice and application, pupils become independent and reflective spellers who understand the value of precision in written communication.
Across all aspects of English, we promote high expectations, enjoyment, and ambition. We want every child at St Vincent’s to leave our school as an articulate speaker, fluent reader, and confident writer—ready to use their skills to learn, create, and contribute to the world around them.