Literacy underpins the whole school curriculum and in effect we are all teachers of literacy. As such Carre's Grammar School is committed to improving standards of literacy in all students through a consistent approach across all areas of the curriculum. Literacy refers to the ability to communicate effectively in a variety of ways to a range of audiences. It unites the skills of reading, writing, speaking and listening. It is vital that students are allowed to become competent language users, in order to lead successful and productive adult lives. Competence and confidence with literacy skills promotes self-esteem and sense of purpose. Examinations demand high levels of literacy and it is those students who are literate who are more likely to achieve higher standards of attainment in public examinations. The more independent styles of learning can only be accessed where literacy levels are high. These styles of learning promote confidence and also assist in examinations where independent sustained writing is required. We should all take responsibility for our children’s language development.