Our writing program rests on explicit, carefully sequenced instruction, building from words to sentences, to embedding content into more detailed passages and whole texts. Sentences are the building blocks of all writing, hence the focus targeting grammar at a sentence level. We foster creativity and student voice, encouraging students to write for authentic purposes and audiences. By combining strong foundational skills with rich opportunities for expression, we support students to become thoughtful, capable and confident writers.
We know that learning to read is not something that happens naturally for all children — it requires explicit, systematic and responsive teaching. Our approach combines the key elements of effective reading instruction, including phonemic awareness, phonics, vocabulary, fluency and comprehension. Students are taught the essential skills needed to decode words, build understanding and develop a love of reading through structured, purposeful learning experiences. Teachers develop students confidence through shared and whole class reading and students respond through peer conversations, in groups and through written formats.
We support students to become confident readers and writers through a structured approach to phonics and language development. Students learn the relationship between letters and sounds, helping them decode unfamiliar words and develop reading fluency. Our literacy approach goes beyond phonics by explicitly teaching morphology — understanding how words are built through prefixes, suffixes and base words. This helps students recognise patterns in language, strengthen spelling skills and expand word knowledge. We also place a strong focus on vocabulary development, exposing students to rich language experiences, new words and meaningful opportunities to use language in speaking, reading and writing. By building vocabulary alongside phonics and morphology, students deepen their comprehension and confidence across all areas of learning. Through explicit teaching, practice and engaging learning experiences, we aim to give every student the foundations they need to become successful communicators, readers and lifelong learners.
Oral language lays the foundation for the reading and writing skills children develop at Newham PS. They use oral language in all aspects of their education – in the classroom as they connect with peers and teachers, to explore and explain their thinking, to discuss their feelings and emotions, and in finding new ways to communicate ideas. These skills help our students become successful readers and strong communicators, as well as building their confidence.
