From Mark Maker To Writer

Last week the teachers from all the Early Years classes were lucky enough to attend a really inspiring training course focusing on how to best support children on their journey from being a mark maker to a writer.

The course was led by Alistair Bryce Clegg who is a former Early Years teacher and Headteacher who now travels the country offering training and workshops.

We all came back enthusiastic and inspired. It was great to know that so many of the things we discussed during the course are things we already do at Hazelmere but as always there were plenty of new ideas to try especially to help engage some of the less eager writers in our classes.

We already have some time focusing on fine motor skills but we are looking forward to introducing a regular "Funky Fingers" slot alongside "Dough Gym." These sessions aim to improve both strength and dexterity and are planned to target the specific needs of the children involved so that they are working the right muscles for their stage of development.

I am sire there will be lots of exciting new activities and developments and after an unforgettable demonstration of "Jedi Writing" I suspect that might find it's way into the Reception approach to handwriting as well!