At Thomas Jolyffe Primary, we recognise that writing is central to all aspects of life and we set out to show that writing is not only a tool, but a vehicle for enjoyment and something to soothe the mind. The skill of writing enables children to communicate with themselves and others while documenting and conveying their knowledge and ideas. Building on experiences, it encourages expression and higher order thinking skills to develop.

By creating a stimulating environment and employing appropriate resources, we are determined to provide all pupils with a supportive writing curriculum which will allow learners to recognise their full potential and develop the appreciation of literature, creativity, independence, curiosity and confidence.

Writing skills underpin most elements of the school curriculum and are essential for life in the 21st century. Considering the fundamental importance of writing in everyday life, we are driven by the need to develop each learner’s writing ability, enabling them to play a full part in society. 

1. Familiarity 

Through the teaching and learning of writing and exposure to different genres on a regular basis, our children are able to learn by this regular exposure. For example, genres such as newspaper reports and diary entries are regularly included in Power of Reading units, allowing children to become more familiar with their style than if they only appeared once as a focused writing unit. Of course, these focused two or three week writing units  remain to allow children the chance to dive deeper into the genre, broadening their knowledge. 

2. Writing broadens our knowledge of the world

Through the teaching and learning of writing and exposure to a variety of different texts, our children will acquire knowledge and an understanding of our world; communicated through writing. Non-fiction texts - such as Year Five’s Shackleton’s Journey - broaden our children’s understanding of world history, culture and multiple perspectives; resulting in writing that communicates this knowledge through critique, evaluation and debate. 

3. Writing consolidates our school values

Through the teaching and learning of writing skills and exposure to different types of texts alongside our assemblies, values and community mindset, pupils develop values that will allow them to access their continuing education and participate fully in society. Our commitment to No Outsiders permeates through teaching and learning across the school.

4. Writing nurtures 

As we encourage writing to come from within, we encourage both expressions of creativity and expressions of thought. This can take many forms and mean many things to many people, but allowing children to explore their freedom of communication through writing is in many ways the end of a process that begins by reading their first letters and sounds as they enter our school.