Handwriting

Overview: 

We set high expectations and expect all pupils, from an early age, to form letters correctly, confidently and fluently with increased automaticity. We support pupils to hold their pencils correctly and form letters using the agreed approach, which is underpinned by the learning of handwriting ‘families’. All pupils are taught how to sit correctly at a table, whilst holding a pencil comfortably and correctly. Good handwriting habits are established from the beginning.

Handwriting requires frequent and discrete, direct teaching. We ensure that the size of writing implements are not too large for young pupils’, so that they can hold them easily and correctly, avoiding bad habits being practised. Specific teaching is available for left-handed pupils so that their needs are met. As pupils get older, joined handwriting becomes the norm, with pupils being able to use it fast enough to keep pace with what they want to say.

Aims for the National Curriculum:

The programmes of study for writing at key stages 1 and 2 are constructed to include transcription (spelling and handwriting). It is essential that teaching develops pupils’ competence within handwriting as writing depends on fluent, legible and, eventually, speedy handwriting.