Phonics Subject Lead: Sarah Humby

At BCS Prep, English inspires pupils to become confident readers, writers and communicators with a genuine love of language and literature. Through engaging texts, purposeful writing and rich opportunities for discussion, children develop the literacy skills, creativity and independence needed to express themselves clearly and engage fully with the world around them.

What Pupils Learn

Early Years
Children take part in daily communication, language and literacy activities, including regular Read Write Inc. phonics sessions. They develop early letter formation, enjoy stories and rhymes, begin writing for different purposes, and build confidence, vocabulary and expressive communication through speaking and listening.

Key Stage 1
Pupils build strong foundations through daily English and phonics lessons. Shared, guided and independent reading develops fluency and comprehension, while writing focuses on sentence structure, punctuation, vocabulary, spelling and handwriting. Regular reading and spelling at home further reinforce key skills.

Key Stage 2
Pupils develop increasingly sophisticated reading, writing and grammar skills through a rich range of texts, authors and genres. They analyse texts in greater depth, write confidently for different audiences and purposes, and take greater responsibility for editing and improving their work. Reading for pleasure and ambitious, independent writing are strongly encouraged.

How We Teach

English is taught through engaging, purposeful learning with strong links across the curriculum. Lessons are inclusive and differentiated, combining high expectations with appropriate support and challenge. Technology is used effectively to enhance reading, writing and communication, while discussion and critical thinking help pupils develop confidence in expressing and exploring ideas.

Enrichment & Assessment

Learning is enriched through World Book Day, National Poetry Day, Michael Rosen Day, writing competitions, author and theatre visits, educational trips, reading challenges and a range of literacy clubs. Progress is monitored through observation, writing portfolios, reading records, spelling checks and standardised assessments, with pupils encouraged to reflect on their learning and set personal targets.

Celebrating Achievement

Achievement in English is recognised through house points, certificates, commendations and displays of excellent work. Pupils have opportunities to share their reading and writing with peers, parents and the wider school community, while competitions and end-of-year prizes celebrate attainment, effort and creativity, encouraging every child to take pride in their progress.