Approach to Handwriting

We aim to ensure pupils enjoy learning and developing their handwriting with a sense of achievement and pride.

In Reception, we place a strong emphasis on developing the pre-writing shapes that build the foundations for confident handwriting. Children are taught how to hold a pencil comfortably and to form letters correctly, supported by the helpful mnemonics from our Read, Write, Inc phonics lessons. This marks Stage One of the RWI handwriting programme. Once children can form their letters, they move on to the Read, Write Inc. Letter Village handwriting lessons. At Stage Two, children practise forming letters that naturally flow into a joined style. In the later stages, we teach children how to join their letters securely and then focus on building speed, control, and fluency to support their writing across the curriculum.

Children in year 2 will start using some of the diagonal and horizontal strokes needed to join letters. In years 3 and 4, children will focus on increasing the legibility, consistency and quality of their handwriting. Children in years 5 and 6 will continue to practise handwriting and be encouraged to increase the speed of it while being clear about what standard of handwriting is appropriate for a particular task.