The KS2 reading test results have lit a proverbial bonfire! As a result, many schools are reflecting on and reviewing the way in which reading in primary schools is taught. Before I consider the effective teaching of reading in primary schools, let us put the dodo to rest! The test... View Article
My experience doing inset abroadOn a grey, wintery day, I was asked, “Would you be interested in some inset abroad in Doha?” I love to travel and see new places, but, having taught in international schools myself, I am also interested in working with the particular needs of these schools to... View Article
Why should we teach grammar? Well, we now have an intense focus on grammar within the statutory English curriculum, so that is certainly one reason! Much more than that, however, is that grammar is about language. It is about how words are chosen, how sentences are written, how effective detail... View Article
Leading English in a primary school is a vast undertaking and, with all the current shifts and changes with the implementation and embedding of the 2014 curriculum, it has become increasingly demanding. An English leader needs to be organised and confident, but much more than that needs a passion for... View Article
Guided reading has become a “hot” topic and I am finding myself spending a lot of time working with schools on developing effective practice. With the real focus on reading in the 2014 curriculum, many schools are reviewing their teaching of reading. Approach to Guided ReadingSchools approach guided reading in... View Article
What an interesting year I have had working with the implementation of the 2014 English curriculum! Not only have we battled with raised expectations and new objectives but also a completely new approach to assessment. Standards look different; children may work below or at the expected standard or at greater... View Article
