Phonics

At Holycroft Primary school we believe that all children can learn to read and write fluently. Learning to read is the key to opening doors for our children therefore by learning phonics they can access quality learning across a broad and balanced curriculum.
We follow the Little Wandle Letters and Sound revised phonics scheme. It is a systematic, synthetic programme that embeds consistency throughout the teaching of Phonics and Early Reading. Phonics is taught daily and is regularly assessed to track progress. Children access 3 reading sessions a week using texts that have been specially created for the Little Wandle Scheme. These books are matched closely to the children’s phonic ability.

This journey starts in Nursery with the foundation programme and follows the Little Wandle progression through to the end of Year 1. Children in Year 2 will then conclude the programme by learning about spelling rules. Children throughout school that need it will access daily keep-up, either individually or in a small group, to ensure all children are able ‘keep-up’ with the pace and progression of learning.

Staff across Early Years, Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 have completed the Little Wandle training to ensure we are all delivering the same high-quality phonics. As teaching all children to read is vital, we have an Early Reading/Phonics Leader who drives the Little Wandle programme through school. This person is highly skilled at teaching phonics and reading and they monitor and support staff, to ensure everyone teaches with fidelity to the scheme.

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