Phonics
At Lympstone Primary, we believe that all our children can become fluent readers and writers. This is why we teach reading through Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised, which is a systematic and synthetic phonics programme.
At Lympstone Primary, we value reading as a crucial life skill. We have a strong focus on language development for our children because we know that speaking and listening are crucial skills for reading and writing in all subjects.
By the time children leave us, they read confidently for meaning and regularly enjoy reading for pleasure. Our readers are equipped with the tools to tackle unfamiliar vocabulary. We encourage our children to see themselves as readers for both pleasure and purpose.
Reading at home
Although your child will be taught to read at school, you can have a huge impact on their reading journey by continuing their practice at home. There are two types of reading book that your child may bring home:
- A reading practice book. This will be at the correct phonic stage for your child. They should be able to read this fluently and independently.
- A sharing book. Your child will not be able to read this on their own. This book is for you both to read and enjoy together.
Reading practice book
This book has been carefully matched to your child’s current reading level. If your child is reading it with little help, please don’t worry that it’s too easy – your child needs to develop fluency and confidence in reading.
Listen to them read the book. Remember to give them lots of praise – celebrate their success! If they can’t read a word, read it to them. After they have finished, talk about the book together.
Sharing book
In order to encourage your child to become a lifelong reader, it is important that they learn to read for pleasure. The sharing book is a book they have chosen for you to enjoy together.
Please remember that you shouldn’t expect your child to read this alone. Read it to or with them. Discuss the pictures, enjoy the story, predict what might happen next, use different voices for the characters, explore the facts in a non-fiction book. The main thing is that you have fun!
Please see the Little Wandle website and the Everybody Read Leaflet for more support and advice.
Little Wandle Resources for Parents
Support materials
Please take a look at the documents below for some useful information.
Policy & progress
Our Ofsted 2022 Inspection found that "leaders make sure reading is a priority. Staff promote a love of reading from the moment that children start school. There is a systematic and sequenced approach to the teaching of reading. Staff have been well trained in the new reading curriculum. As a result, it is delivered effectively so that pupils quickly learn to decode works and build up their fluency. Books are carefully matched to pupils' phonics knowledge. Leaders use regular assessment to spot pupils who are at risk of falling behind with phonics. Pupils receive appropriate additional support to help them to become stronger readers."
