Description
Nicola Romaine’s session will explore the vital role of handwriting fluency as a foundation for successful writing, grounded in the Department for Education Writing Framework. Drawing on cognitive load theory and the Simple View of Writing, Nicola will demonstrate how automaticity in handwriting and spelling frees working memory for composition, enabling pupils to express and organise ideas more effectively. The session will combine clear rationale with practical strategies—from explicit, cumulative instruction and ‘ready to write’ routines to targeted practice for speed and legibility—highlighting handwriting fluency as a non-negotiable skill for success across the curriculum.
Nicola is a national leader in Primary English and educational leadership, with over two decades of experience across primary education, Initial Teacher Education, and commercial organisations. She engages closely with current research in reading, writing, and oracy, working to bridge the gap between research and classroom practice. Nicola’s work focuses on driving national impact by empowering educators at all stages of their careers and promoting evidence-based, inclusive approaches that support confident, successful readers and writers.
