Meet the writing instruction expert – Dr Helen Walls
Educational researcher, author, professional learning facilitator, and writing instruction expert
Dr Helen Walls (PhD, Dip Tchg, BA/BMus) is a prominent figure in writing instruction and literacy education, combining over 20 years of classroom experience with extensive academic research to help teachers transform their writing programmes. As co-author of How to Teach Writing, Spelling and Grammar and a leader in professional development, Helen’s mission is to equip educators with evidence-based strategies to engage every student and make writing a highlight of the school day.
As the managing director of The Writing Teacher, a consultancy offering online writing workshops and resources, she empowers teachers with actionable tools to improve literacy outcomes. She is also a member of the Massey University school support team, providing tailored advice and professional development for schools.
Helen has published extensively in reputable journals, including The Australian Journal of Learning Difficulties and The Education Hub, and presented her findings at national and international education conferences. Her insights into the teaching of writing focus on:
- Evidence-based strategies for teaching spelling, vocabulary, grammar, and writing in primary classrooms.
- Practical methods to integrate feedback and formative assessment into everyday teaching.
- Solutions to overcome barriers to student engagement and achievement in literacy.
Helen’s deep commitment to raising achievement in writing has earned her a reputation as an authority in the field. Helen’s work bridges the gap between research and practice, providing primary educators with evidence-based strategies that are practical, engaging, and impactful.
A foundation in research and practice
Helen’s journey into writing instruction is rooted in both practice and academia. As part of her PhD research, she conducted two groundbreaking studies that explored teachers’ beliefs about writing instruction and trialled her innovative Fast Feedback Formative Evaluation System. This system, designed to improve formative assessment practices, is just one example of her commitment to bridging research and practice.
Her work is informed by the Simple View of Writing, which emphasises the interrelationship between transcription skills (spelling and handwriting), translation skills (vocabulary and sentence structure), and self-regulation in writing composition. These principles underpin all her resources and courses, offering teachers a structured yet flexible approach to improving writing outcomes.
Helen Walls [with Christine Braid] has produced a book that teachers will find invaluable. Based on solid research, Walls and Braid hope that the book will become a ‘one-stop shop for teaching writing and to make writing a highlight of every school day.
Professor James Chapman
A trusted author and professional development leader
Helen’s expertise is showcased in her Essential Resources publication and professional development course, How to Teach Writing Spelling and Grammar:
This collection provides teachers with research-backed guidance for teaching handwriting, spelling, grammar, sentence structure, comprehension and composition. Each book provides practical strategies designed for real classrooms.
Co-presented with Dr Christine Braid, this online, self-paced course expands on the book’s principles, offering video modules and practical demonstrations to support teachers in embedding best practices in their classrooms.
What experts are saying about Helen’s work
Helen’s resources have been met with widespread acclaim from educators and researchers alike. Professor James Chapman describes her book as: “A valuable resource for all teachers committed to improving their teaching of writing, spelling, and grammar. Helen Walls and Christine Braid fill a significant void in teacher education, presenting research-backed strategies in a clear, practical way.”
Chapman continues: “Teachers frustrated by the slow pace of systemic change will find this book refreshing and empowering. Helen’s ability to unpack the complexities of writing instruction without jargon is a gift to teachers who want to make meaningful improvements now.”
Addressing the challenges of modern classrooms
Helen understands the realities of today’s classrooms, where teachers must navigate the demands of curriculum requirements, diverse learner needs, and the influence of social media on student writing.
Through her work, she provides teachers with tools to build confidence and skills in their students, from foundational spelling and handwriting to sophisticated sentence construction and composition.
Key features of her approach include:
- Practical guidance on teaching transcription and translation skills.
- Strategies for using formative assessment, including the Fast Feedback system.
- Techniques for integrating writing across the curriculum to enhance engagement.
A voice for change in literacy education
Helen is not only an author but also a passionate advocate for professional development. Her workshops, publications, and courses reflect a belief that every teacher deserves access to high-quality, research-based training. By providing practical resources, she aims to empower teachers to embrace new strategies and help their students achieve their full potential as writers.
Ready to support educators
Dr Helen Walls is excited to bring her expertise to classrooms. Whether through her book, professional development course, or future resources, Helen is committed to supporting teachers as they navigate the evolving landscape of literacy education.