Thinking
The latest thinking from our team of experts and our community of frontline educators.
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Blog articleFeatured Post
Four ways to strengthen writing in Reception
Reception is a key moment in a child’s journey as a writer. It’s when children start to realise that the marks they make share meaning and tell a story.
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Blog articleFeatured Post
Trainee teacher talks: “It’s the little victories that make all the hard work worthwhile”
When Will Coles taught a child to tie their shoelaces, it sparked his drive for supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
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Blog articleFeatured Post
Four ways early years settings can be more inclusive
How can early years settings create a truly inclusive environment for every child? Expert practitioners Dixie-Louise Dexter and Nicola Middleton explain four approaches their early years team takes to provide tailored support from the very start.
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Blog article
How to help pupils master composition in writing
Effective writing is a process, moving through stages such as planning, drafting, editing and sharing. Our advice sets out how guiding pupils through each step helps them organise ideas, build confidence and refine their language. By supporting every stage, you'll help pupils develop the skills to express themselves clearly and creatively in their writing.
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Blog article
How to teach spelling: a crucial part of writing
Putting spelling at the centre of your teaching will help pupils unlock confidence and creativity in their writing. We offer practical guidance to show why strong, explicit spelling instruction matters from the very start, and how it supports writing success. Discover clear strategies, engaging activities and prompts to help you reflect on your approach. Prioritising spelling means every pupil can move past the basics and enjoy the creative side of writing.
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Blog article
Why sentence-building is a foundation of great writing – and how to teach it
As highlighted in the Department for Education’s writing framework, sentences are the foundation of great writing and help pupils become confident writers. Our guidance explores why sentence-building matters, how it supports pupils to construct clear, engaging writing, and what effective teaching looks like in practice. With strong sentence skills, pupils can write with clarity and confidence.
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Blog article
How to teach handwriting
By making handwriting a core part of your teaching, you give pupils the confidence and fluency they need to thrive as writers. This article helps teachers and school leaders understand why handwriting matters and how it underpins writing success. You’ll find practical guidance on developing handwriting skills, supporting physical development, and weaving regular practice into daily routines, so that every pupil can build strong foundations for writing, both in school and beyond.
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Blog article
What is the writing framework and how will it help schools?
Literacy expert Sarah Scott explains what the Department for Education's writing framework is and how primary school teachers and leaders can use it to support your school's writing journey.