Spelling
Our spelling curriculum is designed to provide a broad and balanced education that meets the needs of all pupils. Our aim is to build confident writers who are equipped with the tools they need to communicate clearly and effectively.
Early Years and Year 1
Spelling is taught systematically from Key Stage 1 onwards, ensuring pupils develop secure knowledge of spelling patterns and conventions and can apply these accurately in their writing. Vocabulary development is prioritised across all phases through explicit teaching, repeated exposure and meaningful use in both reading and writing
At Our Lady Immaculate Primary School, spelling in Reception and Year 1 is firmly rooted in the Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised phonics programme. Children learn to spell by applying their growing knowledge of phonemes and graphemes, segmenting words carefully and choosing the correct spellings for the sounds they hear. Daily phonics lessons, alongside regular practice in reading and writing, help pupils build confidence and accuracy, laying strong foundations for spelling as they progress through the school.
Year 2 – Year 6
We follow the award-recognised Ready Steady Spell by Literacy Counts to ensure that all pupils become fluent and accurate spellers. Spelling is taught in a clear and systematic way, with regular reviews and assessments. Ready Steady Spell, is research-informed and impact-proven, helping pupils secure the essential skills and strategies they need to spell confidently across the curriculum.
Through engaging activities, consistent teaching routines and regular opportunities to revisit prior learning, we help all pupils to embed their spelling knowledge into their long-term memory.