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WRITING AND GRAMMAR AT AINTREE DAVENHILL PRIMARY SCHOOL

 

We recognise that writing is a fundamental skill that contributes significantly to pupils' development as confident thinkers, communicators, and learners. It is taught both discretely and across the wider curriculum, including topic and science work.

To ensure a consistent and progressive approach to writing and spelling, we follow the Ready Steady Write scheme by Literacy Counts. This high-quality, research-informed programme places a strong emphasis on vocabulary-rich, modelled texts, enabling pupils to experience excellent examples of writing across a range of genres. The scheme provides a clear sequence of learning that supports children in developing the skills necessary to become fluent, purposeful, and imaginative writers.

We have chosen Ready Steady Write because of its structured progression, focus on grammar and sentence construction, and its integration of spelling within the writing process. By embedding spelling lessons within meaningful writing contexts, children are better able to apply spelling rules accurately and confidently in their independent work.

The impact of using this scheme is clear: children develop a love of writing, a strong grasp of grammar, and a growing ability to spell and write with confidence and accuracy. Writing is celebrated across the school and proudly displayed in classrooms and shared spaces, reflecting the value we place on pupil voice and creativity.

To further support the development of fine motor skills and handwriting fluency, we use the Letter Join scheme from Reception to Year 3.

READING AT AINTREE DAVENHILL PRIMARY SCHOOL

 

At Aintree Davenhill, we aim to foster a lifelong love of reading, a deep enjoyment of books, and a passion for learning. Reading begins with the sharing of stories, both at school and at home. This daily exposure to language and storytelling lays the foundation for reading success, and regular home reading remains a vital part of every child’s journey in both Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2. Your support in hearing your child read each day is invaluable and makes a significant difference.

In EYFS and Key Stage 1, we follow the Read Write Inc. (RWI) programme, a highly structured and systematic approach to teaching phonics. Through RWI, children quickly develop the skills to decode words and read with increasing fluency and confidence. This programme not only supports early reading but also builds vocabulary, comprehension, and a love of storytelling from the very beginning of a child’s education.

In Key Stage 2, children transition to the Accelerated Reader (AR) programme. This real-book approach gives pupils access to a wide range of high-quality, age-appropriate literature from our well-stocked school library. AR supports children in selecting books at the right level for their reading ability, developing stamina, comprehension, and a genuine enjoyment of independent reading. Regular quizzes help pupils reflect on their understanding and progress, while also allowing teachers to track development and tailor support.

Through our structured programmes and inspiring reading environments, children at Aintree Davenhill grow into enthusiastic, confident readers who are well-equipped for future learning.

For further details, please see our Phonics and Reading Policies.

SPELLING AT AINTREE DAVENHILL

 

At Aintree Davenhill, spelling is taught systematically to help children become confident, accurate writers. From Year 2 onwards, we follow the Ready Steady Spell programme by Literacy Counts. This structured and consistent approach ensures clear progression in the teaching of spelling across Key Stage 2.

Ready Steady Spell is designed to build on the foundations of phonics and develop children's understanding of spelling patterns, rules, and strategies in a meaningful context. The programme is aligned with the National Curriculum and supports children in applying their spelling knowledge across all areas of writing.

Spelling is taught explicitly through engaging, well-sequenced lessons, with opportunities for regular review and consolidation. Children are encouraged to explore word origins, meanings, and morphology, helping them make connections and apply their learning more confidently in their independent writing.

By using Ready Steady Spell, we ensure that children are equipped with the tools they need to spell accurately and to take increasing ownership of their spelling development.

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