Communication skills are at the forefront of teaching and learning at Ribblesdale. We recognise that reading, writing and oracy are important life skills which enable pupils to engage fully with the world around them, as well as providing the foundation from which pupils can access the school’s curriculum offer. The explicit teaching of these skills is integral to quality-first teaching in the classroom. Each subject promotes the importance of literacy in communicating fluently, writing with confidence, and becoming lifelong readers. Our transition programme ensures that the information gained from Key Stage 2 is used effectively to challenge all pupils and tracking systems are in place to provide support to the pupils who require it.

We aim to support all pupils in developing their communication skills both within lessons and by taking part in wider opportunities and enrichment. During lessons, pupils are taught to talk and write as subject specialists and the use of Edtech further enhances opportunities to develop literacy skills. Each subject’s curriculum supports pupils to develop key literacy skills, including reading strategies, written communication and opportunities to focus on speaking and listening. Pupils have many opportunities to receive rewards for demonstrating progress with communication skills and for their participation in events.