Statement of intent

Spelling at Denham Village School

At Denham Village School, we are committed to ensuring that every child becomes a confident, accurate and independent writer. Our spelling curriculum is based on the best available educational research and reflects our belief that children learn to spell most effectively when they understand how words work, rather than simply memorising lists of words for a weekly test.

We have moved away from the traditional approach of sending home spelling lists to be tested each Friday. Instead, our teaching focusses on spelling patterns, word structures, morphology (prefixes, suffixes and root words), etymology and daily practice. Children learn why words are spelt in particular ways and how to apply this knowledge when writing across the curriculum.

Throughout the week, pupils engage in short, focused spelling activities that help them explore language, build connections between words and develop lasting spelling knowledge. Rather than relying on weekly spelling tests, we use dictation activities that allow children to apply their spelling, punctuation and writing skills in meaningful contexts. This gives teachers a much clearer picture of how well children can use spelling independently in their everyday writing.

Our approach begins in Reception through the Little Wandle phonics programme and continues progressively through Key Stages 1 and 2. As children move through the school, they develop an increasingly sophisticated understanding of spelling patterns, word families, prefixes, suffixes and the origins of words, while also learning the statutory spelling requirements for their year group. 

We recognise that spelling can be challenging for some children and provide additional support where needed, including targeted interventions, phonics support and adapted assessment opportunities. Our aim is to ensure that every child experiences success and develops confidence as a writer.

Parents play an important role in supporting spelling development. We encourage families to talk about spelling patterns, read regularly with their children and celebrate effort and progress. By working together, we can help children develop the knowledge, confidence and independence they need to become successful lifelong learners.

At Denham Village School, we are not simply teaching children to pass a spelling test. We are teaching them to understand words, apply their knowledge and become skilled writers for life.

How Parents Can Support Spelling at Home

Parents play a vital role in helping children develop confidence and accuracy in spelling. The most effective support is not testing children on a list of words, but encouraging them to think about the spelling patterns and word structures they are learning in school. Asking questions such as*“What spelling pattern are you learning this week?”* or “Can you think of other words that follow the same pattern?” helps children build a deeper understanding of how words work.

Reading together regularly remains one of the most powerful ways to support spelling development. Through reading, children encounter correctly spelled words in meaningful contexts, helping them to recognise patterns and expand their vocabulary. Parents can also encourage children to use strategies such as Look, Say, Cover, Write, Check to practise important words and develop their independence.

Most importantly, we encourage parents to celebrate effort as well as accuracy. Children become more successful spellers when they feel confident to take risks, learn from mistakes and discuss language. By working in partnership with families, we can help every child develop the skills, knowledge and confidence to become an effective writer.