Inspiration Trust spearheads KS2 Writing improvements across Norfolk

Possessing the ability to communicate in writing is a fundamental entitlement of all pupils and it is well recognised that it is an essential skill needed in order to open doors in adult life. However, it is also recognised that Norfolk, as a region, consistently underperforms in this area at Key Stage 2. 

Inspiration Trust wanted to tackle this issue head on and through collaborating with the Department for Education, the Norwich Priority Board and the local authority, set up the Norwich Writing Project.  

The project, which has seen renowned educational consultant Sally Rundell and the Inspiration Trust’s delivery team made up of Ben Arscott, Sophie Macdonald, Hannah Milton, Adam Smith, and Nicky Robson work with Norwich-based primary schools over the last four terms to improve writing outcomes has been a tremendous success with: 

• 95% of schools are using the Norwich Writing Project Teacher Assessment Framework 
• 80% of schools report more regular book scrutiny 
• 75% of schools report more frequent learning walks  
• 80% of schools report an increase in teacher accountability  
• 90% of schools report assessment and co-planning being their key support for improvement 
• A 65% increase in self-confidence levels by English leads 
• Primary headteachers across Norwich expressing their gratitude about the project and requesting its continuation to their CEOs/the local authority. 

Infact, the Norwich Writing Project has been such a success that from 2025 we are proud to state that it is evolving into the Norfolk Writing Project. An evolution that will enable us to maintain the productive community of English Leads in Norwich and continue to improve standards of writing across not only the city, but the entire county. 

Ben Arscott, lead for the Norfolk Writing Project said: 

“Over the course of lifetime of the NWP we’ve witnessed a renewed sense of mission to improve writing standards. Despite coming from different trusts and schools, the teachers involved have coalesced into a community which shares expertise and strives to achieve the best for Norfolk children. I can’t wait to start working with more and start to see the impact of the project on Y6 outcomes.”