Handwriting
Handwriting at St Mark’s
At St Mark’s, we believe that fluent, legible handwriting is an essential skill that enables pupils to communicate effectively and take pride in their work. We recognise that handwriting develops through distinct stages and have carefully designed our provision to support pupils from early mark making through to fluent, joined handwriting. We follow the Little Wandle Handwriting scheme from Reception to Year 1 and the Nelson scheme in Years 2-6.
The aims of which are:
- Develop correct pencil grip, posture and letter formation from the earliest stages of learning.
- Learn to form letters accurately and consistently through regular, structured practice.
- Build fine motor control and pencil skills to support handwriting development.
- Practise letter families and movement patterns to develop automaticity and confidence.
- Develop correct sizing, orientation and spacing between letters and words.
- Progress from printed letters to joined handwriting as pupils become ready.
- Apply handwriting skills across the curriculum, ensuring high standards in all written work.
- Receive targeted support where needed to help all pupils achieve success.
- Develop fluency, stamina and presentation skills through regular opportunities to write at length.
- Take pride in the presentation of their work and understand the importance of clear written communication.
Handwriting in EYFS
In both Nursery and Reception children access a range of fine and gross motor activities, mark-making opportunities and purposeful play to build the strength, coordination and control needed for effective letter formation and writing. Through the Little Wandle programme, children develop the physical skills, pencil control and movement patterns that underpin successful handwriting. Handwriting is taught explicitly and linked closely to letter formation, phonics and early writing, enabling children to develop accuracy, confidence and fluency. Children will:
- Develop fine and gross motor skills through carefully planned activities and play.
- Build hand strength, coordination and pencil control.
- Develop correct pencil grip and posture.
- Begin to learn letter formation through daily phonics teaching.
- Develop the physical skills needed for successful handwriting and writing in Year 1.
Handwriting in Year 1
In Year 1, pupils continue to follow the Little Wandle handwriting programme alongside daily phonics teaching. Handwriting is taught explicitly and linked closely to letter formation, phonics and early writing, enabling children to develop accuracy, confidence and fluency.
- Learn correct letter formation through daily, structured teaching.
- Develop consistent letter sizing, orientation and positioning.
- Apply handwriting skills alongside phonics, spelling and writing activities.
- Build pencil control, fluency and stamina through regular practice.
- Develop automaticity in letter formation to support composition and writing.
- Learn to present work neatly and take pride in written outcomes.
- Build confidence and independence as developing writers.
- Continue to develop the correct pencil grip and posture.
Handwriting in Years 2–6
From Year 2 onwards, pupils follow the Nelson Handwriting programme, developing a fluent, legible and efficient handwriting style. As handwriting becomes increasingly automatic, pupils are able to focus more fully on composition, vocabulary and the communication of ideas.
- Develop fluent and accurate joined handwriting.
- Improve speed, stamina and consistency in written work.
- Apply handwriting skills across all areas of the curriculum.
- Maintain high standards of presentation and organisation.
- Use handwriting that supports effective communication and composition.
- Take pride in producing neat, legible and well-presented work.
Curriculum Books
Quick links to our Curriculum books for all year groups from Nursery to Year 6.
Year Groups
From Nursery to Year 6 – find out all the information relevant to your child’s year group.
Whole School News
School news and events, letters to parents, dates for your diary, information and announcements.