WRITING

At Grace Cook Primary School, we use The Write Stuff approach to teach writing. This method, developed by Jane Considine, combines engaging teaching techniques with a clear structure that helps children build confidence, develop rich vocabulary, and learn how to craft exciting, high-quality writing. Through a blend of creativity and step-by-step guidance, our pupils learn to express themselves with accuracy, imagination, and style.

SPELLING

At Grace Cook Primary School, we use Spelling Shed to support the teaching and learning of spellings. This interactive program makes practising spelling fun and engaging, while also providing a structured pathway that helps children learn key spelling rules and patterns. By combining games, challenges, and regular practice, Spelling Shed builds pupils’ confidence and accuracy, enabling them to apply their spelling skills effectively in their writing.

READING

At Grace Cook Primary School, our approach to teaching reading is carefully designed to give children the skills, knowledge and confidence they need to become fluent, thoughtful readers. Lessons are structured to build understanding step by step, while also encouraging pupils to explore a wide range of high-quality texts. By focusing on vocabulary, comprehension, and discussion, we help children to develop a love of reading alongside the ability to think critically about what they read.

Children at Grace Cook Primary School take home reading books each week to support their reading journey. We ask that pupils read regularly at home and that this is recorded in their reading record, which teachers will check weekly. In Reception and Key Stage 1, most children will take home Read Write Inc. books that are carefully matched to their phonics stage. Once children have completed the Read Write Inc. programme – usually in Year 2 – they will move on to taking home Readerful books, which continue through Key Stage 2. These books are chosen to support fluency, comprehension, and a love of reading.

PHONICS

At Grace Cook Primary School, we teach early reading through the Read Write Inc. Phonics programme. This structured and systematic approach helps children learn to read sounds and blend them into words, building strong foundations for reading and writing. Lessons are fast-paced, engaging, and tailored to each child’s stage, ensuring that all pupils make progress with confidence. Alongside developing accuracy and fluency, the programme also fosters a love of stories and books, helping children to become enthusiastic, independent readers.

Parents can support phonics at home by listening to their child read regularly, encouraging them to use their phonics skills to sound out and blend unfamiliar words, and celebrating their successes. Sharing books together, even if your child is not yet reading them independently, also helps to build vocabulary, comprehension, and a lifelong love of reading.

 More information about Read Write Inc can be found here: Parent guide to Read Write Inc. Phonics - Oxford Owl

More information about the different elements of teaching English can be found in the attached documents.