Writing at John Betts

At John Betts Primary School, our English curriculum is based on high-quality texts that inspire pupils and provide a high quality model. Each unit of work begins with a carefully selected text by a significant author, providing a rich context for the development of reading, writing and oracy skills.

To ensure coherent progression, key grammar skills are meticulously mapped across the year, alongside a range of purposes for writing, so that new concepts are introduced systematically and previously taught skills are revisited for consolidation. Spelling rules are mapped alongside this progression and are fully integrated into each unit.

For every unit of work, teachers identify and discuss the purpose of writing and the audience they will be writing for. A WAGOLL (What A Good One Looks Like) is used to exemplify the grammar and spelling rules taught within the sequence. This model text offers pupils a clear reference point for high-quality writing, and it is continually revisited throughout teaching to reinforce expectations, highlight key features and provide an explicit model. 

Oracy is at the heart of all that we do, and is embedded throughout the curriculum to ensure pupils have frequent opportunities for oral rehearsal, enabling them to refine ideas, deepen understanding and strengthen their use of language. In addition, dictation and handwriting form an integral element of English lessons, supporting accuracy, fluency and confidence in transcription.

Together, these components create a structured, coherent and enriching English curriculum that enables pupils to develop as articulate speakers, thoughtful readers and assured writers.

Writing across the Curriculum

Writing extends beyond English lessons and is woven throughout the wider curriculum. For example, in humanities, all units build progressively towards a final extended piece of writing, allowing pupils to apply their English skills purposefully while demonstrating depth of understanding in subjects such as history and geography.

Handwriting

Handwriting is taught progressively across the school to ensure that pupils develop a fluent, legible and confident style. From the earliest stages in Reception, pupils are supported in establishing a dynamic tripod grip. This is nurtured through a range of fine and gross motor activities—such as dough disco, threading and other strengthening tasks—which build the foundational control required for effective handwriting.

As pupils move through the school, handwriting skills are developed in a carefully structured progression. Early emphasis is placed on correct letter formation, consistent sizing and appropriate spacing. These skills are then refined and embedded throughout Key Stage 1 and lower Key Stage 2, enabling pupils to write with increasing accuracy and fluency. Little Wandle mneumonics and visuals are used to support letter formation. 

By Years 5 and 6, pupils focus on enhancing speed and personal handwriting style, applying their skills confidently across all areas of the curriculum. This ensures that by the end of primary school, they are equipped with a mature, efficient and legible handwriting style that supports their learning and prepares them for the demands of secondary education.

Every English lesson begins with handwriting, allowing teachers to explicitly model and pupils to practise with immediate feedback. 

Dictation

Dictation is an integral part of the English curriculum at John Betts, supporting pupils in developing accuracy, spelling, punctuation and grammar skills. At the start of every English lesson, pupils are given a dictation which provides them with the opportunity to apply spelling rules, grammar knowledge and vocabulary they have been taught, reinforcing learning in a meaningful and practical context.

Dictation also strengthens handwriting, concentration and auditory processing, encouraging pupils to listen carefully and write with precision. These regular, cumulative exercises help embed key skills across the curriculum, ensuring that pupils become confident, accurate and independent writers.