English

At Yarlside Academy, we believe English is the foundation of all learning. It enables children to communicate effectively and creatively in society and with the world at large.

Therefore, English is given a high priority in the school and is taught daily in every class using the guidance from National Curriculum (The Foundation Stage classes use the Early Years Foundation Stage and progress into the National Curriculum).

Reading

At Yarlside Academy, we also like to make sure that children not only have the opportunity to learn to read but to become lifelong readers for purpose and pleasure:

We have a wide range of reading scheme books in school, which the children read in class and at home.
Reading comprehension is taught through separate lessons using a variety of high quality texts covering a range of genres.
Each classroom has their own reading corner.
We have a newly refurbished and resourced school library.
In addition to this, in each year group, we have a set of Core Books per term that the children are encouraged to read.

Writing

Each year, the children are taught how to write a variety of fiction, non-fiction and poetry.

We focus on the features of the text.

grammar and punctuation
vocabulary
sentence types

At the end of each topic, the children produce their own piece of independent writing and some children are selected as ‘Star Writers’ in class for their excellent work.

Spelling

From Year 2 until Year 6, the children are taught a variety of spelling patterns, word families and spelling rules through Oxford Owl’s Read, Write Inc Spelling Programme.

We also learn High Frequency words (common words) that appear very often in written texts.

There are 6 lists in total throughout the school.

Phonics

Phonics is taught through a structured and highly effective programme called Read Write Inc.

This programme helps all children to learn to read fluently and at speed so they can focus on developing their skills in comprehension, vocabulary and spelling.

Speaking & Listening

The children are taught how to listen, understand and respond appropriately to others in class. This is achieved through ‘Show and Tell’ sessions, class and group discussions and drama based activities.