Handwriting at KWPS
At Kirkham and Wesham Primary School, we believe that high-quality handwriting is an essential life skill. Clear, fluent and legible handwriting enables children to communicate their ideas effectively and take pride in the presentation of their work.
We have high expectations for handwriting across the curriculum and encourage all pupils to present their work neatly and with care. By developing fluent handwriting from an early age, children are able to write with greater confidence, accuracy and stamina, allowing them to focus on the content of their writing rather than the mechanics.
Our Handwriting Approach
Handwriting is taught through a consistent, progressive approach from the Early Years through to Year 6.
Children are explicitly taught:
- correct posture and pencil grip
- accurate letter formation
- letter size and orientation
- spacing between words
- consistent presentation
- joining techniques
- writing fluently and at an appropriate speed.
Skills are built progressively, ensuring children have secure foundations before moving on to the next stage.
Early Years Foundation Stage
In Elm Class, children begin by developing the fine motor skills needed for writing through a range of practical activities.
Children are encouraged to:
- strengthen their hand muscles through play
- develop pencil control
- form letters correctly
- begin to write recognisable letters
- develop confidence in mark making and early writing.
Letter formation is taught alongside phonics to ensure children develop secure habits from the very beginning.
Key Stage 1
As children move through Key Stage 1, they continue to practise correct letter formation while developing consistency in the size, shape and positioning of letters.
Children learn to:
- write letters correctly and consistently
- sit letters on the line
- leave appropriate spaces between words
- improve pencil control and writing fluency
- begin joining letters when they are ready.
Regular practice helps children develop confidence and accuracy.
Key Stage 2
In Key Stage 2, the focus shifts towards developing fluent, joined handwriting that can be maintained across all curriculum subjects.
Children continue to improve:
- consistency of joins
- writing speed
- presentation
- stamina for extended writing
- independence when writing.
Handwriting expectations remain high in every subject, encouraging children to take pride in all of their work.
Presentation Expectations
We encourage children to take pride in their work and present it to the highest standard.
Across the school, pupils are expected to:
- write neatly and legibly
- date and title their work correctly
- use the correct handwriting style for their year group
- look after their books and learning resources
- take care when editing and improving their work.
Good presentation reflects the care and effort children put into their learning.
Pen Licences
As children demonstrate consistently neat, fluent and joined handwriting, they may be awarded a Pen Licence.
Receiving a pen licence is a special achievement that celebrates children's hard work, perseverance and pride in their presentation. Once awarded, pupils use a handwriting pen for their written work, helping to prepare them for the expectations of secondary school.
Supporting Handwriting at Home
Parents and carers can support handwriting development by:
- encouraging correct pencil grip
- practising letter formation
- providing opportunities for drawing and writing
- encouraging children to write cards, lists and letters
- praising effort and presentation.
Small amounts of regular practice help children develop confidence and fluency.
Our Aim
At Kirkham and Wesham Primary School, we want every child to develop clear, fluent and confident handwriting that they can use throughout their education and beyond.
By teaching handwriting consistently and celebrating children's progress, we help pupils take pride in their work and develop an important skill for lifelong learning, enabling them to Belong, Believe and Be the Best They Can Be.