English
At Burhill Primary School, we believe that language is at the heart of learning. Through a rich and ambitious English curriculum, pupils develop the skills to read, write, speak and listen with confidence, enabling them to communicate effectively and thrive across all areas of learning. We foster a love of literature and language from the earliest years, creating enthusiastic readers, thoughtful writers and articulate speakers.
Our English curriculum is built upon three interconnected strands: reading, writing and oracy. Through high-quality texts, systematic phonics teaching, meaningful discussion and purposeful writing opportunities, children develop strong language knowledge, broad vocabulary and a deep understanding of how language is used to inform, entertain, persuade and inspire. Reading and writing are closely linked, with opportunities for pupils to apply their learning across the curriculum and in real-life contexts.
From Nursery to Year 6, pupils follow a carefully sequenced curriculum that is fully aligned with the National Curriculum and underpinned by clear progression documents that ensure knowledge, skills and vocabulary build cumulatively over time. Children learn to decode and read fluently through Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised, develop comprehension through exposure to a wide range of high-quality texts, and become confident writers through explicit teaching of composition, grammar, punctuation, spelling and handwriting. Oracy is woven throughout learning, enabling pupils to rehearse ideas, develop vocabulary and communicate with increasing clarity and confidence.
By the end of Year 6, pupils leave Burhill as confident communicators who read widely, write effectively and speak thoughtfully. They are equipped with the knowledge, skills and vocabulary needed for the next stage of their education and have developed a lifelong appreciation of reading, language and literature.
For further information about our English curriculum, including reading, phonics, writing, spelling, handwriting, oracy, assessment and enrichment opportunities, please see the English Curriculum Information below.
