Systematic Synthetic Phonics and Reading at Appleton Primary School
At Appleton Primary School, we follow the Read Write Inc. phonics programme. Phonics is for children in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 who are learning to read. It is also used beyond KS1 for children who may need extra support.
Children in Year 5 and 6 use the Fresh Start programme. Fresh Start is a ‘learn to read’ programme aimed at older children but follows the same principles as Read Write Inc.
Each half-term, we assess and group our children based on their stage of reading not age of reading. This means that all children practice reading at the right level.
In our Read Write Inc. lessons we teach children to speedily read sounds and practice reading and spelling words containing these sounds.
Children read books that match their phonic knowledge. We believe success breeds success, therefore our children read decodable books that contain sounds and words they can read. This matches the National Curriculum.
Children read each Storybook three times at school to ensure accuracy and build fluency and comprehension. The children bring home this same book so they can practice becoming a storyteller with both fluency and expression. These build children reading skills and confidence.
Alongside reading we also teach the children to spell the words they have been reading. They develop their ideas into sentences so that they can write about the storybooks they read. These skills can then be applied to children’s writing across other areas of the curriculum.
We read other stories to children, stories they may not yet read for themselves. These stories will promote a love of reading, they will build your child’s vocabulary and understanding. Reading stories out loud has so many benefits, we do this with enthusiasm and love.
Our aim for our children to become independent readers who can then choose their own books to read and develop their love of reading
Reading is a fundamental and vital skill. Sometimes our children need extra practice and support, we do this through providing extra tutoring on a one-to-one basis for 5-10 minutes every day. This is based on ‘keep-up’ not a ‘catch-up’ idea. No child is left behind.
Every child will be taught to read in our school. We are passionate and enthusiastic about ensuring every child is a reader.
Films for parents and carers
The films below show parents and carers how we teach children to read and write with Read Write Inc. Phonics.
Helping your child with reading
Here at Appleton we believe reading to be very important. A great deal can be done in the home to help your child with reading. The link below gives tips on how to inspire readers and share books with your child.
http://www.booktrust.org.uk/books/children/how-to-share-books/
“Pupils enjoy learning through play, stories, and collaboration, with engaging activities that promote creativity, teamwork and curiosity.”
“Leaders have prioritised consistency in phonics teaching, ensuring that children receive the support they need to become fluent and confident readers.”
“Pupils are respectful about race, religion and disabilities, showing a strong understanding of equality, inclusion, and kindness.”
“Pupils contribute to the community through charity work and local visits, helping them grow into thoughtful, socially aware individuals.”
“Skilled adults support learning and develop vocabulary in early years, ensuring that even the youngest learners get a strong and confident start.”
“Leaders offer a wide range of extra-curricular activities, providing pupils with enriching experiences that enhance both learning and wellbeing.”
“Pupils feel safe and know teachers will help if they are worried, fostering a secure and supportive environment where children can thrive.”
“The expectation at Appleton is that ‘Every child is a reader,’ and this belief is embedded throughout the school’s approach to phonics and literacy.”
“There is a strong reading culture within the school, with staff and pupils alike showing a shared enthusiasm for books and language development.”
“Appleton Primary School continues to be a good school, where pupils are well supported and cared for across all areas of their education.”
