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Handwriting

Handwriting at Blakehill Primary School

At Blakehill, we understand that handwriting is a key component of writing development and it is taught explicitly and regularly across the school. Consistent routines and high expectations ensure pupils develop legible, fluent handwriting that supports their overall written communication. School uses the PenPals Handwriting Scheme.

All staff share responsibility for modelling and maintaining high standards of handwriting across all areas of the curriculum. Please refer to the school's handwriting expectation and progression document below.

 

Whole School Expectations

  • Handwriting is taught explicitly and regularly in every year group.
  • Teaching begins early in Reception and is in addition to writing in phonics lessons.
  • Pupils are taught consistent routines that support correct handwriting habits.
  • All staff model the school’s agreed handwriting style whenever writing for pupils.
  • High expectations for presentation and handwriting are maintained across all subjects.
 
 

Handwriting Progression Document

The school follows PenPals: a consistent, school-wide approach to handwriting with a clearly sequenced progression. This enables pupils to gradually develop the physical skills, knowledge and habits required for legible, fluent and efficient handwriting.

Handwriting is taught explicitly and regularly in every year group. Teaching focuses first on secure print handwriting before introducing joined handwriting. Once pupils have mastered print handwriting, teaching increasingly supports speed, fluency and consistency.

The agreed handwriting routines — including posture, paper positioning and tripod grip — are taught and reinforced across all year groups.