Intent

At Purley Primary School, our English curriculum develops a lifelong love of reading, writing and discussion. We provide all children, including those with SEND, with access to high-quality texts that inspire learning and promote curiosity. Through exposure to rich literature and meaningful discussion, pupils learn to express opinions, articulate ideas clearly, and develop confidence in speaking and listening.

We aim to build secure knowledge and skills in reading and writing through a clear pathway of progression. A strong foundation in literacy enables our pupils to access the full curriculum, communicate effectively and succeed as active members of society.

Implementation

Our English curriculum is broad, well-sequenced and rooted in the aims of the National Curriculum. It ensures that all pupils:

• Read fluently and with understanding, developing a habit of reading widely and for pleasure.

• Acquire a rich vocabulary, secure grammar knowledge and an appreciation of literary heritage.

• Write coherently for a range of audiences and purposes.

• Develop confidence in speaking and listening through discussion, presentation and debate.

High-quality texts underpin all English units, providing purpose and context for reading and writing. Children write across varied genres and link learning to other curriculum areas through authentic tasks such as letters, reports, diary entries and debates.

In Reception, Greg Botrill’s Drawing Club immerses children in storytelling, vocabulary building and imaginative play, fostering early communication and fine motor skills.

Reading is taught through a systematic synthetic phonics approach using Twinkl Phonics and fully decodable Reading Rhino books. These align closely with our phonics progression and are supported by a wide range of fiction and non-fiction materials to develop comprehension. From Year 3 onwards, spelling is taught using Purple Mash, both in school and at home.

We provide targeted interventions for pupils who need additional support, including phonics and reading groups, alongside regular volunteer reading sessions. Lessons are differentiated to meet individual needs, promoting independence and confidence. Rigorous marking and regular feedback ensure pupils understand how to improve.

Impact

Pupils at Purley Primary talk enthusiastically about their learning and demonstrate a genuine love of reading. They apply their literacy skills confidently across the curriculum, showing clear progression in vocabulary, grammar and written accuracy.

Assessment is ongoing and purposeful, informing teaching and curriculum planning. This includes:

• Termly grammar, reading, writing and phonics assessments.

• Standardised spelling and comprehension tests.

• Regular moderation and book scrutiny to ensure consistency and high standards.

As a result, pupils make strong progress, achieve well, and leave Purley as confident, articulate and literate learners, ready for the next stage of their education.