Our English curriculum is a gateway to the vision "with God all things are possible," as it provides children with the powerful tools of literacy to unlock their imagination and find their place in the world. We develop wisdom by immersing pupils in high-quality texts, teaching them to think critically, empathise with diverse voices, and master the art of communication. It takes great courage for a child to share their original writing, to stand and perform a poem, or to express a vulnerable opinion in a debate. This mastery of language is a source of immense joy, sparking a sense of awe and wonder as children discover that their own words have the power to move hearts, change minds, and make the "impossible" ideas in their minds a reality for others.

Our central aim for English is to promote high standards of language and literacy by equipping pupils with a strong command of the spoken and written word, and to develop their love of literature through widespread reading for enjoyment. 

Our aims in teaching English are that all children will: -  

• Develop the necessary skills to use the English language confidently, appropriately and accurately to the best of their ability;  
• Be able to speak clearly, fluently and cogently;  
• Be able to use discussion in order to learn by elaborating and explaining their understanding and ideas to others;  
• Be able to listen to the spoken word attentively with understanding and empathy;  
• Be able to read a wide range of materials easily, fluently and with good understanding for enjoyment and for information, in order to engage with the wider world;  
• Be able to write clearly, accurately and coherently for a range of audiences and purposes using spelling, punctuation and grammar accurately and confidently.

Our Reading Vision

Undeniably, reading feeds pupils’ imagination and opens up a treasure trove of wonder and joy for curious, young minds. Our vision here at Blue Coat is that all pupils are given the support and opportunity to realise their full potential. Through reading, we help our children to develop culturally, emotionally, intellectually, socially and spiritually. We believe that reading is a fundamental skill that allows children to access and enjoy the wider curriculum. Staff in our school recognise that reading is central to children’s progress, and our aim is to create a partnership between staff, children and parents/carers which we see as crucial to the success of their education, and to developing a lifelong love of reading.

‘The more you READ, the more things you will KNOW. The more that you LEARN, the more places you’ll GO!’ - Dr. Seuss

‘If you don’t have time to read, you don’t have the time (or the tools) to write. Simple as that.’ -Stephen King