A report by the Ministerial Advisory Group reviewing English and maths learning, has recommended annual checkpoint tests for students.

It recommends children in Years 4-6 learn handwriting, including cursive handwriting, and study the "conventions of text structure and style".

Children would also be encouraged to write by hand as much as possible in their first three years at school.

The Write Lesson managing director Belinda Blick-Duggan says more schools have turned their back on teaching handwriting than ever.

"Something like handwriting can be so settling and consistent - and actually a really good routine for a lot of those children."

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