What's Little Wandle Handwriting for Reception?

Little Wandle Handwriting provides a structured approach to teaching handwriting right from the start of Reception. Based on research into the teaching of writing and guidance from the Writing Framework (DfE, 2025), the programme supports the development of legible and fluent handwriting through direct teaching, consistent routines and memorable mantras.

Little Wandle Handwriting can be taught alongside the core phonics programme. It uses the well-loved Little Wandle mnemonics that children are already familiar with to ensure they can make links in their learning.

The programme is designed to be taught in 15-minute lessons, four times a week, including a review lesson to reinforce learning. It’s based on the principle of strong, direct teaching of transcription skills, preparing children for fluent writing later on. Advice about how to organise the lessons is included.

The guidance, planning and training are all included as part of your membership. You can start delving into the content now in the new Handwriting area of the website. The accompanying Pupil Workbooks and Teacher’s Handbook are now available to pre-order for delivery in November from Collins.