Writing
Writing is a valued and integral part of the curriculum at Alexandra Park Primary School. Our curriculum endeavours to create a love for writing whilst equipping pupils with a strong command of the spoken and written language. Teaching ensures children enjoy exploring a wide range of genres, are exposed to a range of high-quality texts and have the opportunity to write for different purposes and audiences. We strive to help our children develop into articulate and imaginative communicators, who are well-equipped with the skills they need to become life-long learners; English learning is key in this. Writing has a significant place in education and in society. High-quality education in English teaches our pupils to speak and write fluently so that they can communicate their ideas and emotions to others. Throughout our curriculum, pupils have a chance to develop culturally, emotionally, intellectually, socially and spiritually. All the skills of language are essential to participating fully as a member of society. Pupils are encouraged to consider the impact their writing has on other people. Our writing curriculum and ‘Aspire Programme’ sparks children’s curiosity and love of learning. A range of enrichment experiences inspire and encourage children to explore various career paths and consider how their writing education connects to their life now and future success. Whole class pedagogy along with structured interventions for individuals and small groups are informed by evidence and research, which matches our school context and values. Teachers consistently use the bespoke ‘Alexandra Park Writing Cycle’ to support pupils in their journey to becoming competent, creative and independent writers.
Aspire Programme
As a school we believe in providing the children with as many enrichment opportunities as we can in order to inspire their learning. A few of the opportunities which are promoted through the English curriculum are:
World Book Day – To help promote a love of reading and writing we celebrate World Book Day. This is a celebration of writing, reading, books, authors and illustrators and is an opportunity for the children and staff to share their favourite books and stories.
Author and Illustrator Visits and Workshops - Children also have the opportunity to meet and talk to authors and illustrators as part of our Aspire Programme. This not only helps develop their love of writing and reading but also shows them what is possible for themselves in later life if their follow their passions.
Writing competitions - Our pupils have the opportunity to take part in writing projects throughout the year to help develop their creativity, application of writing skills and love of language. As a result, some children have taken great pride in seeing their writing being published into a real book for people to purchase and enjoy.
Oscars – Children’s writing is displayed around school and can often be celebrated at the end of year Oscars ceremony.