Reading and Phonics

Phonics is a way of teaching children to read quickly and skilfully. They are taught how to

• recognise the sounds that each individual letter makes;
• identify the sounds that different combinations of letters make - such as /sh/ or /oo/
• blend these sounds together from left to right to make a word.

Children can then use this knowledge to 'de-code' new words that they hear or see. This is the first important step in learning to read.

Research shows that when phonics is taught in a structured way - starting with the easiest sounds and progressing through to the most complex - it is the most effective way of teaching young children to read. Phonics and spelling sessions are delivered in Nursery, Reception, Year 1 and Year 2. Pupils in Key Stage 2 are taught to read and spell common words and learn a range of spelling patterns and rules.

In EYFS and KS1, phonics is taught using Little Wandle.  We also use the Little Wandle Reading scheme.

We will supplement with other books banded in the same way. We have recently purchased a wide selection of reading books that go alongside our Little Wandle scheme so that children can also make choices about their reading. Starting from Early Years, children at our school are given an opportunity to choose reading books as we believe that this will develop reading for pleasure across all year groups.

We promote a strong home/ school partnership and encourage children across all year groups to read regularly and discuss books with an adult at home.  See Reading in our curriculum page for more information.