Default Header Image
Hero slider graphic

English

Mrs M Milne English Subject Lead

Mrs M Milne

English Subject Lead

“I do believe something very magical can happen when you read a book.” - JK Rowling

Vision

English is at the heart of all children’s learning at St John’s, as a subject in its own right and as an integral part of our children’s education. We want children to leave St John’s with a love of English and the confidence in themselves to use the skills they learn here to further their education.

We aim to develop pupils' abilities through speaking and listening, reading and writing. We believe that speaking and listening and reading are the building blocks from which high quality writing emerges.

We want children to have a love of reading and choose to read for pleasure as we know the positive impact this can have on a child’s life. Through English and reading in particular, pupils have the chance to develop culturally, emotionally, intellectually, socially and spiritually. English allows children to communicate ideas and emotions to others and at St John’s we place high importance on this.

We want to inspire our children through books and promote a love of reading which will empower them to become lifelong readers. We want books to be seen not as a chore but a gateway to other worlds, opening children’s imaginations.

Love of Reading

Here at St John's, reading is at the heart of everything we do. Storytelling starts with our youngest pupils in EYFS where children retell stories and explore reality and make believe. Children are encouraged to try out new language forms and vocabulary. Carefully chosen books are available for children to discover and enjoy. Reception class also participate in ‘Reading Buddies’ in the library with children in Year 5. All children involved thoroughly enjoy this.

Our new library has been a triumph and well used by all classes. A wide repertoire of children’s books has been chosen carefully. Books which reflect our children as well as books promoting equality, diversity, inclusion and empathy are available. Children's choices are carefully monitored and more titles of popular genres and authors are added throughout the year. As well as visiting our school library we regularly visit Radcliffe library and have strong links with Sarah the librarian. We encourage all our pupils to join if possible.

Our reading ambassadors and librarians have helped with promoting a love of reading by recommending books to others, creating book reviews and keeping the library tidy. Some children have been awarded with Reading Eagle certificates. These are awarded for children who are keen readers, recommend books to others and participate well in reading sessions in class.

In addition, we also have a book vending machine where every child chooses a book on their birthday to take home and keep.  By keeping our vending machine stocked with carefully selected books using expert suppliers, over their time at St John's, we aim to provide each child with a variety of books to have at home and enjoy.