At Whittonstall First School we are passionate about reading. Reading is a vital skill that supports children’s learning across the whole curriculum.  We want children in our school to become enthusiastic, independent and reflective readers. We want our children to enjoy reading and to use the skill to become independent learning citizens in our society.

In our school, we will strive to give pupils a stimulating environment, where reading materials are presented in an attractive and inviting way. Furthermore, within reading lessons we create an environment that stimulates the generation of ideas from texts where all ideas are accepted and valued. Teachers will act as role models in their enthusiasm for both reading and writing by keeping up to date with current children’s literature.

Reading in Early Years 

Reading is a high priority within Early Years and underpins everything we do. This includes making sure topics taught are built around a wide selection of books linked to children’s interests. In Reception, children are taught the technical skills of reading through discrete Phonics lessons following Letters and Sounds. Children are also taught how to talk about books through whole class Guided Reading. Books chosen for Guided Reading sessions are carefully selected to extend our children’s learning experiences and interests as well as to provide them with opportunities to deepen their cultural capital.

Reading in KEY STAGES 1 & 2

Children in Years 1-4 continue to be supported with developing their reading fluency, accuracy and stamina as well as the progression of comprehension skills. This is achieved through both group and whole-class reading sessions and reading for pleasure. In key stage 2, children develop on their prior learning on phonics by continuing to use phonetics strategies, as well as etymology and patterns in language.

In Key Stage One children take part in daily discrete Phonics lessons, as well as a discrete reading session every week. The children build their phonics knowledge into all they do throughout the day too, practising their skills at every opportunity.   In Key Stage two children take part in daily discrete guided reading sessions linked to their whole class book. Through carefully chosen structured books  that interest and inspire, the children challenge their thinking and extend their learning.

All of our  Reading units are planned around up to date, relevant, high quality texts to ensure our pupils are immersed in quality literature. You will find our yearly Reading reading text overview below.