Holly Calver

Holly Calver has been the English Subject Lead at Springhill Catholic Primary School (an ‘Outstanding’ three-form entry primary in Southampton) since 2013. She is also a lead for teaching and learning, focusing particularly on the leadership of Year 6. During Holly’s tenure in this role, the school’s Year 6 SATs results have consistently been in the top 10% nationally despite the incredibly diverse nature of the school’s demographic.

As English Subject Lead, Holly has developed a bespoke writing curriculum for Springhill Primary which is designed to enable all pupils (particularly those who speak English as an additional language) to progress. Passionate about the principles of shared writing and the integral role that this plays in the writing learning journey, she has delivered CPD training to schools across the south and supported fellow teachers to develop their practice in this field.

Additionally, Holly has offered extensive support to schools in Southampton, Portsmouth, Hampshire and Dorset Local Authorities to raise standards in the teaching of writing. She helps schools to develop robust assessment procedures, write cohesive English curriculums and challenge and extend greater-depth writers. Holly is trained as a writing moderator and has been an active member of Southampton’s moderation team since 2015. Dedicated to raising standards and enhancing the skillset of trainee and early career teachers, Holly also lectured on English at a SCITT teacher training centre, as well as helping to write the programme of study being delivered.