Through our teaching of Literacy, we intend to promote a love of literature through widespread reading of books which capture the imagination and interest of children and unlock the door to a world of information. Good literacy skills hold the key to all other subject areas. Mastering the spoken word and written language is crucial in allowing children to express themselves, communicate with others, live well together and develop imaginative and creative skills to cope with the challenges of our multicultural society. Through reading in particular, pupils have a chance to develop culturally, emotionally, intellectually, socially and spiritually.  Further, communication  and thinking skills  are nurtured and extended through philosophy sessions promoting respect and tolerance.

At Woodford Valley, we implement the National Curriculum but put our own creative touch and pedagogy to our delivery. We believe strongly in enriching The Literacy Curriculum with visits to theatres, inviting productions into school, using visitors such as authors, drama specialists (for example, the local Salisbury Playhouse) to deliver workshops which impact and enhance work children have been undertaking in school. We hold an annual Book Week which focuses on a particular book or genre.

We also believe in ensuring writing is purposeful and therefore writing is linked to our class text, history, geography and science topics as well as current affairs such as National elections. We ask children to present work in a variety ways such as presentations, speeches, debates, written narrative, argument and script writing. We currently have a School Radio Station which provides children with real writing opportunities.

Literacy Subject Lead

October 2021