The Importance of Handwriting in Secondary School

In the digital age, the significance of handwriting remains undeniable, especially in secondary education. Firstly, handwriting enhances cognitive development, as it engages the brain in a unique way, improving memory retention and comprehension. Secondly, it fosters fine motor skills, which are crucial for overall development.

Moreover, handwriting allows for personal expression and creativity. It encourages students to develop their own style and can even help in organising thoughts more clearly. Lastly, despite the prevalence of technology, handwriting is often required in exams and standardised tests, making it an essential skill for academic success.

The ability to write legibly, fluently and with confidence is a fundamental skill that underpins academic success across the curriculum. In line with the 2025 Writing Framework, the Trust recognises that transcription skills, including handwriting, must be sufficiently secure so that students can focus on higher-order writing skills such as composition, structure and content. Throughout this strategy, students’ individual special educational needs will be forefront and actions/interventions will be decided, as appropriate to consider them.

This strategy sets out a whole trust approach to a consistent, inclusive approach to improving handwriting, ensuring that all students are supported to produce clear, legible written work or are moved onto alternative methods of recording [AMOR] so they are not disadvantaged in assessments or examinations

The Handwriting Policy aims to:

· Ensure all students develop legible, fluent handwriting

· Identify and support students with handwriting difficulties early, particularly at Year 4 [Evolve]/Year 7 transition or in year transition through the induction process

· Reduce barriers to learning caused by poor handwriting or motor skill difficulties

· Provide reasonable adjustments or AMOR for students whose handwriting remains illegible despite intervention

· Ensure consistency of approach across all subjects

· Align handwriting practice with the expectations of the 2025 Writing Framework