We are a one form entry primary school in north Sheffield. We are above average in terms of Free School Meals, ranked in the 85th – 100th percentile group. The background of the pupils gives the school a deprivation score in the top 20% of schools with nearly half of the pupils classed as disadvantaged as well as significantly higher levels of pupils registered as SEND than the national average. Each year, a large proportion of our children who join our school are well below age related expectations in reading and writing.
Literacy Tree’s Writing Roots are an integral part of our school’s English curriculum. We began our Literacy Tree journey five years ago and since then, both the teaching and learning of writing has gone from strength to strength. Our KS2 results are above the national average. Our pupils have developed a wonderful knowledge of quality texts, high level written skills, beautiful outcomes and most importantly, a love of writing. The hooks/discovery points at the start of the units create curiosity, enthusiasm and unforgettable memories for our children. As a school, we do everything we can to get children excited about reading. Using Literacy Tree’s resources has ensured that our pupils are having the opportunity to really immerse themselves in high quality texts from Reception to Year 6.
Literacy Tree has not only engaged our students but has also had an incredibly positive impact in developing our teacher’s subject knowledge and skills. All staff have engaged in Literacy Tree training and upon return to school are bursting with enthusiasm and great ideas. They are often keen to share their ideas, stimulus and pupil outcomes. Writing Roots are easy to follow and adapt to the needs of our pupils. We look forward to the release of new texts and Writing Roots as well as revisiting our favourites.
Rebekah Peet, Assistant Principal
