Writing

 What Is The Write Stuff by Jane Considine? 

The Write Stuff is a creative and structured writing programme that helps children become confident, imaginative, and skilled writers. Developed by education expert Jane Considine, it’s used in many primary schools to teach children how to write across a range of text types—including narrative, non-fiction, and poetry. 

The approach combines clear teaching with exciting experiences, helping children build vocabulary, understand grammar, and develop their own voice as writers. 

Underpinned by the Writing Rainbow 

At the heart of The Write Stuff is the Writing Rainbow—a colourful and visual tool that helps children understand the key ingredients of great writing. It’s made up of three zones: 

  • The Fantastics: focus on ideas and content (e.g. senses, emotions, actions) 

  • The Grammaristics: focus on grammar and sentence structure 

  • The Boomtastics: focus on literary techniques and style (e.g. similes, alliteration) 

Teachers use the Writing Rainbow to guide children in choosing powerful vocabulary, crafting well-structured sentences, and adding flair to their writing. 

Sentence Stacking Lessons 

Children take part in Sentence Stacking lessons, where the teacher models writing in small, manageable steps. They learn how to: 

  • Build sentences with purpose and precision 

  • Use ambitious vocabulary and varied sentence structures 

  • Understand how grammar and punctuation shape meaning 

Each sentence is carefully “stacked” together to create a high-quality piece of writing, with children contributing ideas and learning from the teacher’s example. 

Experience Days 

Before writing begins, children enjoy Experience Days—fun, hands-on activities that spark imagination and build rich vocabulary. These might include drama, role play, exploring objects, or watching short films. The goal is to: 

  • Immerse children in the topic 

  • Help them feel inspired and excited to write 

  • Introduce powerful words and phrases they can use in their writing 

GPS: Grammar, Punctuation and Spelling 

Children are also taught key elements of the National Curriculum through focused GPS lessons. These help them: 

  • Understand how grammar works in real writing 

  • Use punctuation correctly and creatively 

  • Learn spelling rules and patterns 

This builds a strong foundation for writing with accuracy and flair. 

Independent Writing and Editing 

After building skills through modelling and practice, children write their own sustained piece of independent writing. This is their chance to: 

  • Apply everything they’ve learned 

  • Express their ideas in full 

  • Show off their creativity and technical skills 

Once finished, they edit and improve their work—just like real authors do! 

Spelling from Year 2 Onwards 

From Year 2, children follow Jane Considine’s spelling programme, which helps them: 

  • Investigate spelling patterns and rules 

  • Make sound associations to support memory 

  • Build confidence in spelling through exploration and discovery 

It’s a fun and thoughtful way to help children become strong, independent spellers. 

The Write Stuff turns writing into an exciting journey—one where children learn the tools of great writing and discover the joy of expressing themselves. With clear teaching, creative experiences, and lots of support, every child can become a brilliant writer!  

Writing rainbow