Spelling is a vital skill and is an integral part of becoming a fluent writer.

Understanding that the symbols that we make represent sounds and that these can be put together to make words is the beginning of this process. Initially, children learn to read and spell using phonics and following a structured phonics programme which is delivered every day. 

As they get older, children need to be taught the many spelling rules that we need in order to be a successful speller. In Year 2, when they are ready, the children move onto the ‘No Nonsense Spelling’ programme – a structured programme which covers all of the spelling rules that they need to know by the time they leave primary school. Spelling is taught at least 3 times a week in discrete spelling lessons and is always a focus whenever children are writing. Children are set weekly spellings that consolidate new rules learnt in class as well as the statutory words that they must be able to spell as set out in the national curriculum (link needed). Teachers encourage children to remember spellings using a variety of techniques such as writing out spellings in different colours, highlighting words within words or coming up with mnemonics to help remember words that they are finding difficult.  From midway through Year 2, every child also has a Spelling Journal where they record their spelling learning. Children are encouraged to edit their own work, correct spelling mistakes and use a dictionary to further help with their spelling development.