Writing
At Epsom Primary and Nursery School, we are committed to developing confident, creative, and independent writers. Writing is a fundamental life skill and our inclusive curriculum ensures every pupil is equipped to express themselves effectively.
We use I Am a Clever Writer (IAACW), a structured programme designed to raise standards and enhance writing skills. Pupils explore a range of genres, making writing enjoyable and meaningful. Each teaching sequence includes explicit vocabulary instruction, helping children internalise language structures before applying them in their Star Write pieces.
A Purpose-Driven Approach to Writing
Our curriculum ensures children understand the audience and purpose behind their writing. Pupils write across key genres, applying National Curriculum skills with fluency and confidence. They are encouraged to take pride in their work, develop their own voice, and build resilience in their writing journey.
To raise standards in presentation, we now teach cursive writing from Year 2, ensuring clarity and fluidity in students’ handwriting.
Spelling is taught through the Read Write Inc. programme, reinforcing phonics learning from Early Years and Key Stage 1. Spelling lists are sent home to revisit prior learning, and model texts are designed to embed key spelling patterns within meaningful writing contexts.
Inspiring Creativity and Accessibility for All
From the Early Years onwards, we nurture creativity through immersive, language-rich experiences. In EYFS, we have combined the Drawing Club structure of lessons with the grammar and sentence-building principles of I Am a Clever Writer to form a cohesive and engaging approach to early writing.
We have carefully developed a curriculum tailored to the needs of our youngest learners, focusing on vocabulary development, storytelling, and imaginative expression. In Nursery, children take part in ‘Drawing and Scribble Club’, which supports a smooth transition to Reception by encouraging curiosity, developing vocabulary, and inspiring ideas through questioning. Across the school, we continue to use a range of engaging stimuli—such as picture books, wordless books, videos, music, and powerful imagery—to inspire writing and make it accessible to all learners.
Where possible, writing is linked to the wider curriculum, allowing pupils to draw on knowledge from their humanities and science lessons. This helps children build a rich vocabulary and understand how to use language effectively across different purposes.
Supporting Every Writer
Each child’s writing journey is unique. Pupils engage in drama, speaking and listening activities, as well as structured planning and re-drafting. Targeted interventions and conferencing provide additional support where needed.
As we embrace new technologies, staff explore how AI can enhance writing engagement, offering innovative ways for pupils to interact with stories and themes.
At Epsom Primary and Nursery School, we empower children to see themselves as writers—capable, creative and ready to share their ideas with the world.
