In-Service Education & Training (INSET)
Introduction
Magic Link offers a choice of INSET and training options to support schools in successfully implementing the programme. From a free PDF overview included with every school licence, to an introductory INSET session or more individualised, hands-on support, schools can choose the level of training that best suits their staff and pupils.
The UK Government’s Independent Review of Teachers’ Professional Development highlights the value of INSET days in improving teaching outcomes and fostering professional growth.
Why is INSET training important?
Research shows that many teachers lack confidence and skills in teaching handwriting, often because they did not receive enough direct instruction during their own training. Some experienced teachers also question if traditional methods are still relevant, especially with the rise of laptops and computers in schools. Additionally, professionals like occupational and physiotherapists who work with children may need support on in-school requirements, such as the National Curriculum and literacy strategies. It’s important for all staff to rethink and improve their approach to handwriting instruction. Tailored INSET sessions can help teachers and staff gain the knowledge they need to enhance handwriting teaching effectively.
Who can benefit from INSET?
Our INSET programmes are designed for a wide range of professionals working with children and young people. This includes class teachers, Special Educational Needs Coordinators (SENCOs), literacy coordinators, teaching assistants, student teachers, educational psychologists, as well as occupational therapists.
INSET fees & format
We offer three INSET options to meet the specific needs of your school.
Option 1
Free PDF Overview
Schools that hold a Magic Link school licence automatically receive a PDF overview of the programme. This provides a clear introduction to the course structure, key features and benefits for both staff and pupils. It includes practical guidance on delivery, progression across year groups and key teaching strategies to help staff implement Magic Link with confidence. It provides a valuable starting point for schools looking to establish a consistent and effective approach to handwriting across the curriculum.
Option 2
Introduction & Overview INSET Session: Up to 90 minutes – fee £175 plus travel expenses
This session provides school staff with a clear introduction to the Magic Link Handwriting Programme, including how the programme is structured and delivered. Designed for primary or secondary staff, it covers key teaching strategies and practical guidance to help staff understand and confidently implement the Magic Link method. Where time allows, the session may also include practical activities, giving staff first-hand experience of some of the techniques used within the programme.
Option 3
Individual School Tailored Support Package: Up to 2½ hours – fee £225 plus travel expenses
Our visits are customised to meet your school’s specific needs and can be adapted to suit both staff and pupils. These may include training staff to understand and model the Magic Link method correctly, demonstrating key teaching techniques, and delivering initial sessions directly to pupils. We can also provide guidance on how best to introduce and implement the programme within your school, helping staff feel confident in continuing the programme independently. Please contact us directly to discuss your requirements so that we can create a tailored support package that works best for your school.
Topics we cover
1. The Magic Link Programme Background
In this session, we provide a comprehensive overview of the Magic Link handwriting programme. Key points include:
✓ Evidence and research behind the programme.
✓ When it was launched.
✓ Reviews from trusted sources such as Google, Trustpilot, and the Good Schools Guide.
✓Before-and-after examples showcasing the programme’s effectiveness.
✓ Implementation strategies and a summary of the programme’s key components.
✓ The Magic Link font and how it is integrated into the National Curriculum.
2. How the Magic Link Handwriting Programme Improves Academic Performance?
Despite the rise of digital tools, handwriting remains a crucial skill for academic success. This session focuses on how poor handwriting can negatively impact a student’s performance, exploring four key areas:
✓ Reduced readability.
✓ Slower writing speed.
✓ Decreased confidence and motivation.
✓ Impact on cognitive processing.
✓ We also explain how the Magic Link programme can address these issues and improve handwriting skills, leading to better academic outcomes.
3. The 3 Magic Link Handwriting Programmes
1
The Nursery Course for Pre-Schoolers (Age 4) EYFS
For pre-school children, this nursery course consists of 26 animated alphabet video songs and accompanying worksheets which teach the basics of handwriting in a fun and engaging way. They provide a gentle introduction to letter sounds, shapes and formations, ensuring young learners are ready for more formal handwriting instruction as they enter primary school.
2
The Non-Joined Programme for Younger Children (Age 5) EYFS/KS1
The non-joined programme teaches letter formation, size, simple words and sentences in 15 steps and is specifically designed for younger children who are just beginning to develop their handwriting skills. In the INSET training we will outline how the non-joined script lays the foundation for fluent, legible handwriting and prepares pupils for cursive handwriting.
3
The Cursive Programme for Primary and Secondary Schools (Ages 6–18) KS2-KS5
The Magic Link cursive programme teaches neat, cursive handwriting in 30 steps using online lessons and printable worksheets. It improves handwriting, speed, confidence, phonics and spelling. This INSET session guides teachers in implementing the programme Magic Link cursive handwriting programme. an demonstrates how it supports students from Key Stage 2 to secondary school, providing a consistent approach throughout their educational journey.
4. Supporting Secondary School Pupils
Many pupils leave primary school without fully mastering handwriting, which can affect their performance at Key Stage 3. Poor handwriting can hinder their ability to access the curriculum, particularly if they cannot write legibly or quickly enough. This session provides practical guidelines for supporting secondary school pupils who need extra help to improve their handwriting, even within the constraints of a busy timetable.
5. Tools, Grips, and Grasps
Ergonomics play a vital role in handwriting. This session covers the best tools and environments to support effective writing, including:
✓ Recommended pens, pencils, and grips for children who struggle with handwriting.
✓ Promoting proper posture and writing techniques, staff will have the opportunity to explore a variety of tools and discuss their suitability for different students.
6. Supporting Left-Handed Writers
Left-handed students often face unique challenges when learning to write. This inset allows participants to experience these challenges first-hand and offers practical strategies for modifying classroom practices. By making small adjustments to teaching letters and letter formations, teachers can significantly improve the handwriting experience for left-handed pupils.
7. Developing a Whole-School Handwriting Policy
Handwriting standards are most effectively maintained in schools with a clear, consistent policy. This session provides guidelines on how to create a whole-school handwriting policy that supports all students. We offer advice on what to include in the policy and how to ensure that it is implemented consistently across the school.
Fees are payable in advance. To book, please complete our school enquiry form, and we will provide you with information about the teacher who is available to deliver the session.