Handwriting

Fluent handwriting is crucial to allow children to think about what, not how, they are writing. We teach and practise handwriting discretely to the point where children no longer have to think about how they are forming, and later joining, their letters. In YR and Y1, children are taught a printed style in discrete handwriting lessons using a scripted patter that is consistent across the year groups. They repeat the patter as they are learning the print to ensure letters begin and finish at the correct point.

The patter is used for a short period only until they have learned to form the selected letters to automaticity. In the summer term of Y2, children are taught joined script which is practiced in discrete handwriting sessions. The teacher uses their discretion as to when all children are expected to use the joined script in their writing. Fluid, automatic handwriting with a correct pencil grip and posture and position is key to writing fluency.