Writing Curriculum at Sir Martin Frobisher Academy

Inspiring Confident Writers

At Sir Martin Frobisher Academy, we believe that writing is a vital life skill that enables children to communicate ideas, express creativity, and succeed across the curriculum. Our aim is to develop confident, independent writers who can write clearly, accurately, and with purpose.

We provide a structured and engaging writing curriculum that builds skills progressively from Early Years through to Year 6.

Early Writing Development

In the Early Years Foundation Stage, writing begins with developing strong foundations. Children are encouraged to mark make, draw, and begin to form letters as part of their play and exploration.

We focus on:

  • Developing fine motor skills
  • Encouraging mark making and early writing
  • Linking sounds to letters through phonics
  • Building simple words and sentences

Children are supported to develop confidence and enjoyment in early writing experiences.

Writing in Key Stage 1

In Years 1 and 2, pupils build on their phonics knowledge to develop their writing skills. They begin to write with greater independence and accuracy.

Children learn to:

  • Write simple, coherent sentences
  • Use basic punctuation such as capital letters and full stops
  • Apply phonics knowledge to spelling
  • Begin to organise their ideas

Pupils are introduced to a range of text types, including stories, descriptions, and simple non-fiction writing.

Writing in Key Stage 2

In Key Stage 2, pupils develop greater control, creativity, and confidence in their writing. They write for a variety of purposes and audiences, using more advanced vocabulary and grammatical structures.

Children learn to:

  • Write in a range of genres, including narrative, persuasive, and explanatory texts
  • Use accurate punctuation and grammar
  • Structure their writing clearly using paragraphs
  • Edit and improve their work independently

There is a strong focus on developing a personal writing style and using language effectively.

The Writing Process

At Sir Martin Frobisher Academy, we teach writing as a process. This includes:

  • Planning ideas
  • Drafting writing
  • Editing and improving
  • Publishing final pieces

Teachers model each stage of the process, supporting pupils to reflect on and improve their work.

Spelling, Grammar and Punctuation

Spelling, grammar, and punctuation (SPaG) are taught both discretely and within writing lessons. Pupils are given regular opportunities to practise and apply these skills in their writing.

We focus on:

  • Accurate spelling using phonics and spelling rules
  • Understanding and applying grammar
  • Using a range of punctuation correctly

Writing Across the Curriculum

Writing is an essential part of learning in all subjects. Pupils are given opportunities to write in a variety of contexts, including science, history, and geography.

This helps children to apply their skills in meaningful ways and develop confidence in different types of writing.

Supporting Writing at Home

Parents and carers play an important role in supporting writing development.

You can support your child by:

  • Encouraging writing for different purposes (stories, lists, letters)
  • Supporting spelling and handwriting practice
  • Talking about ideas before writing
  • Celebrating their efforts and achievements

Assessment and Progress

Writing is regularly assessed to monitor progress and identify next steps. Teachers use:

  • Ongoing classroom assessment
  • Independent writing tasks
  • Grammar and spelling assessments

This ensures that all pupils receive the support and challenge they need.

Our Commitment

Please see our writing overview here, and our progression policies below:

At Sir Martin Frobisher Academy, we are committed to developing confident, creative, and capable writers. Through high-quality teaching and meaningful writing opportunities, we support every child to express themselves and succeed.