English
Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School, Leigh
Reading & Phonics Lead – Mrs T Nice
Writing Lead - Mrs R Rothwell
Intent
The overarching aim for English in the National Curriculum is to promote high standards of language and literacy by equipping pupils with a strong command of the spoken and written language, and to develop their love of literature through widespread reading for enjoyment. The national curriculum for English aims to ensure that all pupils:
- read easily, fluently and with good understanding.
- develop the habit of reading widely and often, for both pleasure and information.
- acquire a wide vocabulary, an understanding of grammar and knowledge of linguistic conventions for reading, writing and spoken language.
- appreciate our rich and varied literary heritage.
- write clearly, accurately and coherently, adapting their language and style in and for a range of contexts, purposes and audiences.
- use discussion in order to learn; they should be able to elaborate and explain clearly their understanding and ideas.
- are competent in the arts of speaking and listening, making formal presentations, demonstrating to others and participating in debate.
At Sacred Heart we aim to give all children opportunities to become effective communicators and develop across the curriculum. Staff will ensure that pupils’ learning is progressive and purposeful. They will take advantage of opportunities to make cross-curricular links. We believe that Literacy skills are at the heart of all children’s learning.
Implementation
At Sacred Heart, English and Phonics is taught daily. Children are given the opportunities to explore, practise and apply new skills to develop their independent writing and fluency in reading.
Impact
We hope that every child will leave Sacred Heart, Leigh
- Read easily, fluently and with good understanding.
- Develop a life-long love of reading, for both pleasure and information.
- Use and read a large variety of adventurous vocabulary.
- Write clearly, accurately and coherently, adapting their language and style in and for a range of contexts, purposes and audiences.
- Speak fluently so they can communicate their ideas and opinions to others respectfully.
Phonics and Early Reading at Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School
Our Phonics curriculum is designed to provide a broad and balanced education that meets the needs of all children. We follow the award-winning Ready Steady Phonics by Literacy Counts, a DfE-validated systematic synthetic phonics programme designed to ensure all pupils become fluent, confident readers. The programme is research-informed and impact-proven, supporting children in developing the knowledge and skills needed to decode, comprehend and enjoy reading.
The progression document ensures that phonics is taught daily through a clear four-part lesson structure that builds children's understanding incrementally. Children are taught to apply their phonics knowledge in both reading and writing, supported by matched decodable texts available in print and online. Children who require additional support access targeted intervention through Ready Steady Go sessions, ensuring no child is left behind.
We also prioritise language development and reading for pleasure across our curriculum, recognising that both are key to reading success. Our aim is to help every child see themselves as a reader for life.
Please click here 826bde99-c820-4e50-9066-a7805ee59a73 for further information to find out about the intent, implementation and impact.
