ENGLISH

Our vision for English at Knaphill Lower School:

At Knaphill Lower School, we want every child to see themselves as a reader. We believe in the power of an aspirational English curriculum as this will empower children to develop their ability to communicate confidently, enabling them to share their ideas, emotions and aspirations through their speaking, reading and writing skills. We believe that a knowledge-rich English curriculum will provide a secure basis for children, allowing them to develop the tools they need to participate fully as a member of society. Through inspirational texts, which are at the heart of our reading and writing curriculum, children are given a window into the lives of others, as well as seeing a reflection of their own lives, which are mirrored in our curriculum. Our selected subject content supports children to develop their knowledge of complex issues, giving them an informed voice in a changing world. Our curriculum empowers children to be the voice of a better future for all.

From the earliest stage of learning in the Early Years, we promote quality interactions to facilitate children in developing communication skills and a rich-diverse vocabulary to support an understanding of the world in which they live. Early reading is given high priority as it is vital for children’s success. We know that reading is key to enabling children to access learning across the curriculum as it allows children to acquire knowledge and to build on what they already know. At Knaphill Lower School, our carefully-selected, DfE approved phonics scheme is Essential Letters and Sounds through which children experience the joy of books and language whilst rapidly acquiring the skills needed to become fluent, confident and independent readers and writers. Our curriculum celebrates literature by giving every child access to the rich variety of texts that they are entitled to experience, and inspires children to develop a lifelong love of reading.

Children use their knowledge and love of reading to become writers who understand the power of the written word and the impact that writing can have upon others. At Knaphill, writing is seen as both a tool of expression of character, a seed of innovation from which change can grow, and a vehicle to share the magic of child’s imagination. As well as creating a love of writing, our progressively sequenced curriculum teaches children the fundamental knowledge to be able to write clearly, accurately and coherently, adapting their language and style in and for a range of contexts, purposes and audiences.

Click on the buttons below to view our approach the phonics, reading and writing at Knaphill Lower School.