English at Diamond Wood
At Diamond Wood Community Academy, we will develop and deepen children’s love of reading, writing and discussion through a broad range of meaningful experiences and exposure to rich language and vocabulary.
We aim to inspire an appreciation of our rich and varied literary heritage and a habit of reading widely and often. We recognise the importance of nurturing a culture where children take pride in their writing, can write clearly and accurately and adapt their language and style for a range of contexts. We want to inspire children to be confident in the art of speaking and listening and use discussion to communicate and further their learning. We believe that children need to develop a secure knowledge base in Literacy, which follows a clear pathway of progression as they advance through the primary curriculum. We believe that a secure basis in literacy skills is crucial to a high quality education and will give our children the tools they need to participate fully as a member of society. Click here to read our full vision and intent statement for English.
English has a pre-eminent place in education and in society. A high-quality education in English will teach pupils to speak and write fluently so that they can communicate their ideas and emotions to others and through their reading and listening, others can communicate with them. Through reading in particular, pupils have a chance to develop culturally, emotionally, intellectually, socially and spiritually. Literature, especially, plays a key role in such development. Reading also enables pupils both to acquire knowledge and to build on what they already know. All the skills of language are essential to participating fully as a member of society; pupils, therefore, who do not learn to speak, read and write fluently and confidently are effectively disenfranchised.
National Curriculum
Curriculum Position and Approaches
At Diamond Wood Community Academy, we are dedicated to excellence and continuous improvement, always striving to offer the best for our pupils while celebrating our achievements. We remain informed about the latest educational developments, research, and evidence, ensuring our methods are both current and effective.
Our approach to teaching reading, writing, and oracy is inspired in part by Jane Considine, a renowned literacy consultant and educator. Jane Considine is well-known for her innovative methods in teaching literacy, particularly through her programmes "Hooked on Books" and "The Write Stuff." These approaches are designed to deepen pupils' comprehension and enhance their writing skills, making literacy more engaging and accessible.
"Hooked on Books" emphasises high-quality reading sessions that encourage deeper thinking and understanding, while "The Write Stuff" focuses on structuring and improving pupils' writing through a clear, systematic approach. By incorporating these strategies into our curriculum, we ensure that our pupils develop strong literacy skills that are grounded in proven educational practices.
We work closely with the Jerry Clay English Hub, with our Deputy Headteacher serving as one of their Literacy Specialists. Our commitment to engaging with EEF research, the Ofsted subject review series, and reports from other educational experts and associations keeps us at the cutting edge of educational best practices.
To further our commitment, our team regularly attends English training and networking events. We continually review and refine our curriculum implementation and impact, ensuring that every change we make delivers the highest possible benefit to our pupils. Over the past few years, we have carefully adapted our English Curriculum, and we remain committed to ensuring that these changes have a profound and lasting impact.
Please click here to read our subject policy for English.
Golden Threads: Substantive and Disciplinary Concepts
In designing our English Curriculum we have thought carefully about the Substantive and Disciplinary concepts that provide us with a 'golden thread' to all learning opportunities and experiences. By highlighting these concepts within the English curriculum, we aim to create a rich and engaging learning environment that fosters a love for language, literature, and communication. To enable us to judiciously select the key concepts that we have, we sought advice and guidance from the National Curriculum and recognised subject associations such as the English Hub and Voice 21.
Click on the links below to find out more about each of these concepts.
Oracy Curriculum: Substantive and Disciplinary Concepts
Reading Curriculum: Substantive and Disciplinary Concepts
Writing Curriculum: Substantive and Disciplinary Concepts
Development of SMSC within our English Curriculum
Our English curriculum is designed to promote British values by creating a foundation of respect, inclusivity, and active participation. Through our focus on oracy, reading, and writing, we encourage children to express themselves confidently, listen to others, and engage in meaningful conversations. This emphasis on communication fosters mutual respect and an understanding of different perspectives. Our curriculum introduces children to a diverse range of texts, helping them to appreciate the cultural heritage and values that are central to British society, as well as the importance of tolerance and diversity. By developing their ability to read, write, and communicate effectively, we aim to nurture responsible, empathetic individuals who are well-equipped to contribute positively to their communities.
Development of Protected Characteristics within our English Curriculum
Our English curriculum celebrates diversity and promotes the understanding and respect of protected characteristics such as age, disability, gender, race and religion. We ensure that our book selection represents a diverse range of characters and authors from different backgrounds. Teachers actively engage children in discussions, encouraging them to explore stereotypes and prejudice in an age-appropriate way. We provide regular training for staff on equality and diversity, which is reflected in the planning and delivery of the English curriculum.
Development of British Values within our English Curriculum
Our English curriculum provides opportunities for children to explore and discuss British values through texts that explore themes of democracy, justice, freedom, and respect. We encourage children to express their opinions, listen to others, and consider different perspectives. Through drama, debates, and persuasive writing activities, we help children understand the importance of the rule of law and individual liberty. We promote mutual respect and tolerance by celebrating different cultures, religions, and beliefs through literature and class discussions.
Visit our Oracy, Reading and Writing Specific Pages!
Additionally, visitors are more than welcome to contact school to find out anymore information if required.
Our subject leaders for English in school are:
