TEACHERS from across Barnsley came together last Friday to celebrate the success of a professional development programme aimed at raising standards in primary writing.

Organised by the Barnsley Schools’ Alliance, this year’s programme, Enabling Greater Depth in Writing Through Effective Planning, has supported upper key stage two teachers to plan high-quality writing opportunities that enable pupils to achieve greater depth by the end of year six.

A spokesperson for the Tykes Teaching Alliance said: “Across five sessions, teachers have worked collaboratively to design and deliver writing units based on shared texts.

“They have reflected on classroom practice, strengthening their understanding of the Teacher Assessment Framework and building confidence in preparing for both internal and external moderation.

“This work builds on a series of professional development programmes offered to all Barnsley primary schools over recent academic years, led by Georgina Fletcher, headteacher at Laithes Primary School

“These earlier programmes focused on strengthening teachers’ subject knowledge in writing, reaching over 200 teachers and leaders across the borough, and laying strong foundations for improving outcomes in English.

“This programme reflects Barnsley Schools’ Alliance’s continued commitment to collaboration and professional learning, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to develop as a confident and capable writer.”