Writing at Tunstall is an active, creative process rooted in play, exploration and purposeful real-world contexts.
We teach writing through a clear sequence of imitation → innovation → invention: children first learn from high-quality modelled texts, practise and adapt language and structure in guided, playful activities, then apply those skills to create original work. Learning often starts outdoors and through Discovery hooks — role play, fieldwork, storytelling walks and creative provocations that spark authentic reasons to write and build rich vocabulary.
Our approach is knowledge-rich and evidence-informed: systematic modelling, shared writing and talk are used to make the mechanics and craft of writing explicit, while daily opportunities for story, poetry and extended composition develop fluency and stamina. Play and outdoor learning deepen children’s sensory language and imaginative risk-taking, supporting reluctant writers and stretching confident authors. Teachers use assessment to target next steps, and children engage in meaningful feedback, self-revision and peer collaboration so writing becomes a visible, iterative craft. The result: creative, confident writers who can write with purpose, voice and skill across the curriculum and beyond.