How DCB’s Environment and Approach Help DUCKS in English
At DUCKS, our English language programme supports a diverse range of learners. By embedding English into every aspect of the early years learning environment, we provide a strong foundation for developing literacy skills. Our approach ensures that English language acquisition is not confined to isolated lessons but woven into everyday learning experiences.
A Holistic Approach to English Learning
English at DUCKS is taught through three key areas :
- Speaking, Listening and Attention
- Reading (including phonics)
- Writing
Because speaking and listening underpins many aspects of language development, this area forms the foundation of our English programme. Spoken English is nurtured across all subjects and activities, ensuring children are continuously immersed in opportunities to hear and use language.
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Here are three essential ways our environment and approach help students thrive in English:
Language-Rich Environment
Our classrooms are full of words, books, and displays that help children learn language every day. Children read in class, in small groups, and visit the library each week. There are cosy reading corners and writing areas in every room. English is part of everything we do—even in Maths or Inquiry lessons—so children are always hearing and using new words. We also teach phonics step-by-step from Reception to Year 2 to help children learn and apply new reading and writing skills.
Learning Through Play and Adult Modelling
Children learn a lot just by playing and listening to the adults around them. Our teachers model good language, repeat and extend what children say, and gently correct mistakes by showing the right way. We also value children’s home languages. If a child understands something in their first language, they can make links which supports English development. Parents play a big role too—whether they speak English or another language, they can support their child’s learning at home by role-playing, modelling using language, reading stories together and asking questions.
Fun Events and Creative Activities
Events can also enhance language learning. Children practise their English through fun events like singing, poetry, and performances. Each year group also puts on a production, which helps build confidence and speaking skills.
In addition to school events, students participate in our (Eduation in Motion) network-wide events, such as The Big Sing, where our DUCKS students showcase their incredible talents with DUCKS students from other EiM schools.
For writing and storytelling, we use the Talk for Writing approach, that teaches a writing cycle in three stages: Imitation, Innovation, and Independent Application. Children first learn a story by heart, then change parts of the original text or story borrowing on the original before then finally creating their own version. Even our youngest children take part—sometimes by drawing, retelling the story aloud, or writing simple words.
By surrounding children with English in creative, engaging, purposeful environment, we help them build strong language skills from the very start.
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