Reception Writing Journey
Throughout the year, pupils strengthen foundational knowledge
and develop greater control of the writing process.
- Use phonics to represent sounds in words.
- Form recognisable letters and write names, labels and captions.
- Begin to write short, meaningful sentences.
- Give meaning to marks and writing.
- Say ideas aloud and hold a simple sentence in mind.
- Reread writing with an adult to check meaning.
Set 1 books for 2026-2027
Reception titles: The attached Set 1 overview
specifies titles for Years 1-6 only. Reception uses carefully
selected texts linked to the EYFS curriculum; families can
contact the class teacher for the current term’s titles.
Journey through 2026-2027
AUTUMN
- Make purposeful marks; hear initial sounds; write own name and familiar labels.
- Orally rehearse ideas through play, stories and Talk Before You Write.
- Develop an efficient grip and accurate letter formation.
SPRING
- Segment simple words and represent sounds in sequence.
- Write captions and simple sentences in meaningful contexts.
- Begin to use spaces, a capital letter and a full stop with support.
SUMMER
- Write phonetically plausible words and some taught common words.
- Write simple sentences that can be read by the child and others.
- Reread and talk about writing, making a simple improvement with support.
What families may notice
Across the year, writing should become more accurate, sustained
and independent. Children should increasingly be able to explain
what they are learning, talk through ideas before writing, use
taught knowledge in new contexts and improve their work after
rereading.
How families can help
Encourage drawing and labelling, practise letter formation
as shown by school, and ask your child to say a sentence
before writing it.
Reception Writing Journey
