Securing TheFoundations In Writing
Strong foundations. Confident writers. Lasting success.
Keystone Academy Trust is delighted to share its Securing the Foundations in Writing approach: a practical, evidence-informed writing programme designed to help schools strengthen pupils’ foundational knowledge, reduce unnecessary cognitive demands and enable children to become confident, successful and motivated writers.
Research shows that giving early writers the best possible start involves building strong foundations: rich oral composition, thoughtful sentence construction, and precise, fluent transcription (spelling and handwriting). Securing the Foundations in Writing keeps this work focused, practical and manageable so schools can teach the essentials well.
Each programme includes comprehensive training to help schools implement the approach effectively in the classroom. Sessions combine practical guidance, high-quality resources and a dedicated teacher handbook, giving staff the knowledge and confidence to deliver the programme successfully back in school.
Securing the Foundations in Writing for Key Stage 1
Securing the Foundations in Writing for Key Stage 1 gives schools a clear teaching structure for Year 1, Year 2 and mixed Year 1/2 classes. It supports teachers to plan purposeful learning through a carefully sequenced approach, use assessment effectively and help children develop the skills they need to become fluent, independent writers.
Securing the Foundations in Writing for Lower Key Stage 2
Building on the success of our Key Stage 1 approach, Keystone Academy Trust is excited to launch Securing the Foundations in Writing for Lower Key Stage 2 in the spring term of 2027.
Developing children’s foundational writing knowledge does not end in Key Stage 1. If pupils do not continue to build, consolidate and extend these skills throughout Key Stage 2, gaps can begin to emerge, affecting their confidence, independence and stamina.
Securing the Foundations in Writing for Lower Key Stage 2 provides a clear transition from Key Stage 1 into the next stage of writing development. Available for Year 3, Year 4 and mixed Year 3/4 cohorts, it helps pupils secure and refine the fundamental skills they have already developed, while preparing them for the increased demands and expectations of the Upper Key Stage 2 curriculum.
Building on the Foundations in Writing for Upper Key Stage 2
Coming Soon! Watch this space for further information about Building on the Foundations in Writing for Upper Key Stage 2, due to launch in 2027-28.
Strong writing outcomes in Upper Key Stage 2 depend on far more than pupils being able to write at length. Beneath extended pieces, there can often be weaknesses in vocabulary selection, sentence control, independence and the effectiveness of editing and revising, which can limit the quality of pupils’ writing.
Building on the Foundations in Writing for Upper Key Stage 2 enables schools to strengthen these essential building blocks systematically, helping pupils develop greater control, confidence and stamina as writers, while laying the foundations for sustained success at the end of Key Stage 2.
Securing the Foundations: KS2 Writing Intervention
Keystone Academy Trust is delighted to launch Securing the Foundations: KS2 Writing Intervention in January 2027.
Designed for pupils working below age-related expectations in writing, this practical intervention programme strengthens the essential foundations of successful writing: oral composition, sentence construction, spelling and handwriting.
The materials break learning into small, manageable steps, giving pupils the time, practice and repetition needed to secure key knowledge and skills. By revisiting and mastering the fundamentals, children can close gaps, build confidence and make stronger progress in writing.
Schools may wish to use their Inclusive Mainstream Funding (IMF) allocation to support the implementation of this resource and targeted intervention provision.
What schools say about the training and resources:
“Lots of ideas to use in the classroom. Simple and effective.”
“It was such an informative session, with high-quality resources and realistic aims that can be taken straight back into school.”
“I attended today and thought it was one of the best pieces of CPD I have had.”
“Outstanding training. Really motivating and inspiring. Can’t wait to get started and now feel more positive and confident about my new mixed class. Thank you.”
“I love the structure of the model and thank you for giving examples of planning.”
Find Out More
Our Training Events
We have an exciting range of training events planned, including open days where you can see lessons in action. You can view and book upcoming events through our Bookitbee site.
Bespoke Support & Ordering
We can also offer bespoke support for schools and trusts, including in-school training and termly monitoring visits to support implementation and impact.
To discuss how we can tailor this support to your school’s needs, please contact Gill.Arnold@keystonemat.org.
Get In Touch
Keystone are committed to helping educators at every level by providing assessment support, training and resources. Get in touch for more information and to see how we can help.