Phonics

Phonics is a key method we use to teach children how to read and write. It helps children to hear, recognise and use the different sounds that distinguish one word from another in the English language.

Written language can be thought of as a code. By learning the sounds that individual letters make, and how these sounds change when letters are combined, children are able to “decode” words as they read. This understanding also supports them when writing, helping them choose the correct letters to represent the sounds they hear.

To become confident, independent readers, children need to develop fluency in decoding—turning sounds into words and sentences that they can understand with ease.

From April 2021, the Department for Education began validating Systematic Synthetic Phonics (SSP) programmes to ensure high-quality teaching and learning in Early Years and Key Stage 1. At our school, we follow the Little Wandle: Letters and Sounds Revised programme, which has been approved by the DfE.

Phonics is taught daily in Early Years, Year 1 and Year 2. All staff delivering phonics have completed high quality training, and we use a wide range of resources to support children’s learning.

All children across the country take part in a Phonics Screening Check at the end of Year 1. Please see here for further details: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/phonics-screening-check-information-for-parents/phonics-screening-check-2024-information-for-parents-text-only-version

Children also take part in small group reading sessions three times a week. They read books that are carefully matched to their current reading level. Once children can read a book with around 90–95% fluency, it is sent home so they can share their success and build confidence, as well as a love of reading.

All children in Early Years and Key Stage 1 are given access to Collins eBooks, where teachers assign their reading books for additional practice at home.

In addition, children bring home a weekly library book to enjoy with their family. These books are chosen to reflect children’s interests and to encourage a love of reading, rather than to match their phonics level.

For more information about the programme and how you can support your child at home, please visit the Little Wandle website:
https://www.littlewandlelettersandsounds.org.uk/resources/for-parents/