“When handwriting becomes automatic, children are free to think, create and communicate.”
At Stanley Grove Academy, we believe that handwriting is a fundamental skill which underpins learning across the curriculum. When children develop fluent, legible handwriting, they are able to record their ideas with confidence and focus more fully on the content and quality of their work.
Our handwriting curriculum is carefully sequenced to ensure children build the physical strength, control and letter formation skills they need as they progress through school. From early mark-making in the Early Years to fluent joined handwriting by the end of Key Stage 2, our approach supports children to develop a comfortable, consistent and efficient handwriting style.
In the Early Years, handwriting begins with building strong foundations. Children develop gross and fine motor skills through mark-making, painting, tool use and practical activities. They are encouraged to talk about shapes, patterns and movements while exploring a range of writing tools. In Reception, when children are ready, focused handwriting sessions are introduced alongside phonics, with an emphasis on correct print letter formation.
In Key Stage 1 children continue to develop control, posture and pencil grip . Handwriting is taught daily to build confidence and fluency. At this stage, children learn the relative size of letters and to form letters that will flow easily into a joined style. When children are ready in year 2, they begin joining. Children learn how to join letters using two basic joins the ‘bridge’ join, the ‘hill’ join. When appropriate, children may begin using a pen to support stamina and pride in presentation.
In Key Stage 2, children refine their handwriting so it is fluent, neat and automatic. Letter joins are revisited and expectations for presentation are high across all subjects. By the end of Year 6, pupils are expected to use joined handwriting confidently and consistently, preparing them for the demands of secondary school.
Handwriting is taught explicitly and modelled by teachers in all subjects. Presentation is valued, and children are encouraged to take pride in their work. Teachers are aware of the needs of left-handed pupils and make appropriate adjustments to ensure all children can access handwriting successfully. Handwriting achievements are recognised through celebrating progress and effort.
Parents can support handwriting by encouraging fine motor activities such as drawing, colouring, cutting and using play dough. Practising letter formation using guidance from school and praising neat, careful work helps to build confidence. Good presentation during home learning tasks also supports children’s progress.