At St Minver School, we inspire children to become confident and capable writers who use language to make sense of the world, share their experiences and connect with others. We believe writing is a powerful tool for communication, creativity and self-expression. Through engaging and meaningful learning opportunities, we encourage every child to develop pride in their work, resilience in the writing process and the confidence to write for a range of audiences and purposes. Our ambition is for every pupil to leave St Minver as an enthusiastic, skilled and independent writer, ready to thrive in the wider world.

Following the expectations of the National Curriculum, we are committed to ensuring that all pupils develop:

We teach pupils to develop secure foundations in spelling, handwriting, grammar and sentence construction, enabling them to write fluently and confidently. Through high-quality phonics teaching in the early years and a progressive approach to spelling throughout Key Stages 1 and 2, children build the knowledge and automaticity needed to become successful writers. We are committed to developing clear, fluent handwriting and expect pupils to apply these skills consistently across all areas of learning.

Rich Vocabulary and Purposeful Language Choices

We place vocabulary development at the heart of our writing curriculum. Through exposure to high-quality texts, discussion and explicit vocabulary instruction, pupils learn to select ambitious and precise language that enhances meaning and engages the reader. Children develop an understanding of how authors use language for effect and are encouraged to make purposeful choices in their own writing.

Skilled Writers Who Plan, Craft and Refine

We teach pupils to write for a range of audiences and purposes, including to entertain, inform, explain, persuade and discuss. Children learn that effective writing is a process and are supported to plan, draft, revise and edit their work with increasing independence. We value the importance of reflection and refinement, helping pupils understand that editing is an integral part of producing high-quality writing.

Writing Across the Curriculum

We provide purposeful opportunities for pupils to apply their writing skills across all subjects. By making meaningful links between English and the wider curriculum, children learn to adapt their writing for different contexts and audiences while deepening their understanding of the world around them. This ensures that writing is seen as a valuable and authentic tool for communication and learning.

High Expectations and Pride in Presentation

We have high expectations for all learners and encourage every child to take pride in their work. Pupils are taught to present their writing neatly, organise their ideas effectively and demonstrate the resilience required to improve and refine their work. We celebrate effort, progress and achievement, helping children develop confidence and pride in their development as writers.

Independent, Confident Authors

Ultimately, we want every child to leave St Minver as a confident, enthusiastic and competent writer who understands the power of language. We strive to nurture children who can communicate their ideas effectively, think creatively, write with purpose and take pride in their achievements as authors.