Intent 

At Repton School Abu Dhabi, we believe that every child deserves access to a rich, ambitious and engaging English curriculum. As an eight-form entry school with pupils from a wide range of cultural and linguistic backgrounds, we wanted to ensure that all children could access high-quality literature whilst developing the knowledge, vocabulary and confidence needed to become successful readers and writers. 

Whilst there were many strengths within our existing provision, we wanted a more coherent approach to English. We were looking for a curriculum that would place exceptional children's literature at its heart, provide meaningful reasons for writing and inspire a genuine love of reading. After extensive research and consultation with staff and pupils, it became clear that Literacy Tree was the right choice for Repton. Staff valued the clear framework it provided whilst still allowing the professional autonomy and creativity needed to adapt learning to the needs of their classes. 
The Literacy Tree aligned perfectly with our vision. Its carefully selected texts, clear progression of skills and emphasis on writing for a purpose provided a strong foundation upon which we could continue to develop our English curriculum. 

Implementation 

As the Junior School Head of English, I worked closely with year group teams and senior leaders to introduce Literacy Tree across the school. The implementation focused on ensuring that staff understood not only how to deliver the units, but also the rationale behind the approach. 

Professional development played a key role. Staff engaged with Literacy Tree training during Inset week, explored the planning resources collaboratively and shared examples of best practice across year groups. This created consistency whilst allowing teachers the flexibility to adapt lessons to meet the needs of their classes. 

One of the most exciting aspects of the implementation was the immediate impact of the texts themselves. Discovery points/hooks, immersive experiences and high-quality hook lessons quickly became a feature of English lessons across the school. Pupils engaged in meaningful discussions around literature and writing outcomes became increasingly authentic and purposeful. 

The texts within Literacy Tree naturally place literature at the centre of school life. We have made a conscious effort to ensure that every child is exposed to ambitious vocabulary, rich language and texts that challenge their thinking, regardless of their starting point. 

Impact 

The impact of Literacy Tree has been significant. Pupils are more engaged in English lessons and demonstrate a genuine enthusiasm for both reading and writing. Writing is no longer viewed as a standalone task but as a meaningful response to rich and engaging texts. 

We have seen improvements in the quality of pupils' written work, particularly in their use of vocabulary, sentence construction and ability to write for different purposes and audiences. Children are more willing to take risks in their writing and show greater resilience when editing and improving their work. The vocabulary used in pupils' writing has never been richer or more varied, with skills and writing techniques being successfully transferred across units and into the wider curriculum. 

Perhaps most importantly, Literacy Tree has helped foster a culture where books matter. Pupils eagerly anticipate new texts, discuss stories with enthusiasm and regularly make connections between their reading and writing. It is not uncommon for pupils to leave lessons still talking about a character, debating an event or eagerly predicting what might happen next. Through Literacy Tree, we have developed confident readers, enthusiastic writers and classrooms where high-quality literature is genuinely celebrated. 

Written by Rebecca Griffiths, Head of Junior English, Repton School Abu Dhabi 

Teacher Testimonials

Since introducing the Literacy Tree at Repton Abu Dhabi, we have seen a positive impact on both pupil engagement and teacher confidence. As a Year 3 teacher, one of the things I value most is the quality of the texts. The carefully selected books expose children to a wide range of authors, themes and experiences, while providing meaningful opportunities for discussion, creativity and writing. 

The engaging hooks at the start of each unit immediately spark curiosity and excitement. The children quickly become invested in the stories and are eager to explore characters, themes and ideas in greater depth. The practical and interactive activities throughout the learning journey help bring texts to life and ensure that all learners can access and enjoy the experience. 

The high-quality planning and clear structure provide excellent support, while still allowing teachers the flexibility to adapt lessons and add their own creativity. This balance has made planning more efficient and helped us focus on the needs of our pupils. 

One of the most noticeable impacts has been on oracy and writing. Children are more willing to share their ideas, use ambitious vocabulary and write with purpose because they are genuinely engaged in the texts. Literacy Tree has helped create a classroom culture where reading, discussion and writing work together to inspire confident and enthusiastic learners. 

Donna Black – Year 3 Teacher, Repton Abu Dhabi 

Literacy Tree has had a hugely positive impact on English at Repton Abu Dhabi. Teaching English through high-quality texts is engaging for all students and allows children with a wide range of learning needs to access lessons successfully. I have seen first hand the depth and breadth of writing the scheme produces, with children becoming increasingly confident, creative and purposeful writers. 

The selection of texts for each age group is excellent and carefully chosen to inspire discussion, imagination and curiosity. The hooks at the start of each learning journey immediately engage the students, generating passionate discussions and excitement around learning. 

The scheme itself is clear, well-structured and easy to follow, providing strong support for teachers while still allowing flexibility and creativity within lessons. The focus on oracy, vocabulary and purposeful writing opportunities enables all learners to participate and succeed. 

Overall, Literacy Tree has transformed the way our children experience English, creating enthusiastic readers, confident communicators and motivated writers. 

Mike Smith, Year 6 Teacher, Repton Abu Dhabi