English

At St Peter Chanel, we follow the Literary Curriculum for the teaching of English. This scheme uses a text stimulus to teach: writing composition, vocabulary, punctuation and grammar, spelling and reading comprehension. We believe literacy is fundamental to all areas of learning. Our English curriculum develops children's abilities to read, write, speak and listen effectively.

Depending on the age group, children work through one or more texts a term, using the book initially to develop reading comprehension, then moving into exploring different vocabulary, punctuation, grammar and spelling objectives, and finally linking it altogether through exploring different opportunities for writing to allow children to apply their learning.

Phonics

We follow the Little Wandle scheme to teach phonics from Year R up to Year 1, and for any children who do not meet the expected standard in Years 2-6. At the end of Year 1, children take a phonics screener test which identifies if they can competently decode words up to and including Phase 5 sounds. If they do not pass, they will retake it at the end of Year 2. If a child is still unable to pass the screener, they will continue to follow the Little Wandle catch-up programme into KS2.

Learning Passports

At St Peter Chanel, we use learning passports to ensure that all children leave each year group having achieved at least all the key learning objectives required for them to successfully transition into the next year group. If parents want to support children at home, these documents are a good place to start.

Reading

We use a systematic synthetic phonics programme in Early Years and Key Stage 1, progressing to guided reading and whole-class texts. Children develop a love of reading through access to high-quality literature.

Writing

Children develop their writing through engaging topics and genres, learning to write for different purposes and audiences. We emphasise spelling, grammar and handwriting alongside creativity and expression.

Speaking & Listening

We provide rich opportunities for children to develop oracy skills through discussion, debate, drama and presentation.

Apps

Alongside the curriculum, we have apps that support reading, spelling and handwriting. These are used in school and at home. If parents need any support logging into these, please speak to your class teacher.