Handwriting
Fluent handwriting is crucial to allow children to think about what, not how, they are writing. We teach and practise handwriting discretely to the point where children no longer have to think about how they are forming, and later joining, their letters.
At Milton, we use Debbie Hepplewhite’s handwriting script.
In YR and Y1, children are taught a printed style in discrete handwriting lessons using a scripted patter. They repeat the patter as they are learning the print to ensure letters begin and finish at the correct point. The patter is used for a short period only until they have learned to form the selected letters to automaticity.
In Y2, children are taught Debbie Hepplewhite’s joined script. This is taught discretely over a number of weeks. Children then practice the script in discrete handwriting sessions. The teacher uses their discretion as to when all children are expected to use the joined script in their writing.
The handwriting patter can be found here and we encourage children to practice at home. Fluid, automatic handwriting with a correct pencil grip and posture and position is key to writing fluency.
