Handwriting

At Windmill, children are taught to take pride in and present their work to the best of their abilities. Following the Letter-join handwriting scheme, handwriting is taught as a separate session, as well as being of high importance across the curriculum. Key stages are provided with expected joins and adult marking models the age-related expectations for the year group.

General guidance and progression in handwriting is as follows:

• Foundation – Activities to promote correct pincer grip, e.g. threading, wipe boards, sand, foam, paint, play dough. Hold a pencil with an effective grip.
• Year 1 – Use some of the diagonal and horizontal strokes needed to join letters.
• Year 2 – Use most of the diagonal and horizontal strokes needed to join letters.
• Year 3 – Form and use the four basic handwriting joins.
• Year 4 – Write with consistency in size and proportion of letters.
• Year 5 – Write fluently. Choose when it is appropriate to print or join writing.
• Year 6 – Write with increasing speed. Adapt handwriting to suit the situation.

Additional handwriting sessions are used for groups/individual children where needed.

Children begin using pencil in their written work.  When handwriting is of an excellent standard, in line with the expectations in the handwriting policy, children in Years 3 – 6 are issued with a handwriting pen. Children in these year groups who show outstanding levels of presentation, are awarded a fountain pen licence by a member of the Senior Leadership Team. Children in Years 1 and 2, who show great care and attention to detail in their presentation, are awarded a special pencil.

Please click on the pages below to view the Letter-join handwriting techniques that children are taught at Windmill. These can be used to support your child at home with their handwriting.