English

At Sheering, we believe that strong language and communication skills are the foundation for success across the curriculum and in life. Our English curriculum is designed to inspire a love of reading, develop fluent and confident writers, and nurture children who can communicate clearly, creatively and with purpose.

Early Reading & Phonics

We follow the Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised programme to ensure that all pupils secure the essential phonics knowledge needed for early reading and writing success. Daily, systematic phonics lessons help children decode confidently and become enthusiastic lifelong readers.

Reading for Pleasure & Purpose

Across the school, we use the highly regarded Centre for Literacy in Primary Education's Power of Reading approach. Through rich and diverse texts, pupils explore themes, characters and ideas, deepening their comprehension and developing a genuine joy for reading.

Writing with Creativity and Control

Linked closely to high-quality texts, writing lessons enable pupils to write for a wide range of audiences and purposes. Children learn to craft their ideas with accuracy, imagination and a strong sense of voice.

Oracy – Speaking and Listening Excellence

We place strong emphasis on oracy. Children are taught how to express opinions, present ideas, question, collaborate and listen actively. These skills are woven throughout lessons to support confidence, reasoning and social communication.

Spelling, Grammar & Handwriting

We teach spelling through Spelling Shed to build accuracy and confidence. Handwriting is an integral part of our English provision, ensuring pupils develop fluent, legible and consistent written presentation as they progress.

Our ambition is that every child at Sheering becomes a confident reader, an expressive speaker and a skilled writer who is prepared for future learning and personal success.

Religious Education

Religious Education at Sheering enables pupils to explore a wide range of faiths, beliefs and worldviews with respect, curiosity and open-mindedness. Christian teaching is an important part of our curriculum and reflects our Church of England foundation, while we also ensure pupils learn about other major world religions represented in our wider community.

We follow the Essex Agreed Syllabus, which provides a clear progression of knowledge and skills across all year groups. To deepen understanding of Christian concepts, we also use Understanding Christianity, helping children explore biblical texts and consider how Christian beliefs influence the lives of believers today.

Through meaningful discussion, enquiry and reflection, pupils are encouraged to ask big questions, consider different perspectives and develop personal responses to the world around them. Our aim is to nurture respectful, informed and thoughtful learners who value diversity and understand the role of faith in society.