Reading and Early Phonics
Improving Reading at High Well School
Reading is a priority throughout school. There is an identified phonics trained reading team led by an experienced reading leader. This team work hard to develop reading across the school. This is to ensure that all pupils are functional readers and can access the curriculum. Positive role models are invited in to school to encourage a positive attitude to reading.
Rob Bradley – rapper/ spoken work artist provided workshops in September.
Rigorous baseline assessment is in place with each pupil assigned an area for development and appropriate intervention if required. Reading Assessments used are: Read Write Inc Fresh Start assessments for decoding and fluency and the Hodder Reading test for comprehension. Interventions take place at least three times a week for those children who are working on Speed sounds and Fresh start modules.
Children on the Read Write Inc or Read Write Inc Fresh Start Reading programme are assessed on a regular basis (at least every 6 weeks) to measure the impact of interventions and ensure pupils’ reading is improving. Pupils are provided with daily opportunities to read for pleasure, pupils have a weekly timetabled slot giving access to the school library. Individualised learning is sent home to pupils needing support. If you have any questions about reading in school, please do not hesitate to contact one of the members of the reading team.
The new literacy framework guidance for parents
Why It Matters
- Reading is the foundation for success in all subjects.
- Children who struggle with reading often fall behind in school.
- The framework helps schools teach reading well, especially to those who need extra support.
What’s New in the Updated Framework?
The latest version expands support beyond early years and Key Stage 1 to include Key Stages 2 and 3. Key updates include:
- Fluency focus: Helping children read smoothly and confidently.
- Support for older pupils: Catch-up strategies for those who missed early reading milestones.
- Reading for pleasure: Encouraging children to enjoy reading, not just do it for school.
- Book selection guidance: Schools are advised to choose diverse, high-quality books.
- Reading across subjects: Literacy is supported in all lessons, not just English.
How Parents Can Help
The framework encourages schools to work with parents. Here’s how you can support your child:
- Read together regularly: Storytime builds vocabulary and imagination.
- Talk about books: Discuss characters, events, and new words.
- Reread favourite books: Repetition builds fluency and confidence.
- Visit libraries: Let your child choose books they’re excited about.
- Celebrate progress: Praise effort and milestones in reading.