English is taught throughout school in several different stages. These stages are:

Immerse

Analyse

Plan 

write 

During the immerse stage, children explore character, setting and vocabulary. When we analyse the text, we pick out key features of the genre and discuss the writer's knowledge and look at how they have used these features to the best effect in their writing. In the plan stage we begin to formulate ideas for our own version of the genre of writing we are studying. Finally, in the write stage, we rely on all the knowledge and ideas we have acquired through examining the writing process and apply this knowledge to our own writing. During this final stage, we often look back on our work and seek to edit and improve it, so that it is the best that it can be. 

Throughout the year, each class will study a variety of texts and a variety of fiction and non-fiction genres of writing. These can be found on the English Long Term Plan. 

Reading

At St James, reading is at the heart of everything we do. Our love of books and stories runs through all areas of school life and plays a key role in inspiring our children every day. Each afternoon, pupils listen to stories from our carefully chosen reading spine, fully immersing themselves in the characters, settings and adventures they discover.

Spelling

Ready Steady Spell is a structured and progressive spelling programme used from Year 2 to Year 6. It covers all the spelling expectations set out in the National Curriculum, ensuring children build their knowledge step by step. The programme follows a cyclical approach, giving pupils regular opportunities to revisit, reinforce, and embed their learning in an engaging and interactive way.

Please see the links below for an overview of the spelling progression taught across St James'.