Phonics and Early Reading

Phonics and Early Reading

At Cliffe VC Primary School, we believe that learning to read is one of the most important skills children develop. We use Read Write Inc. (RWI), a structured and systematic phonics programme, to ensure that all children become confident, fluent readers and writers.

What is Read Write Inc.?

Read Write Inc. is a DfE-validated phonics programme created by Ruth Miskin. It teaches children to:

• Recognise letter sounds quickly and accurately

• Blend sounds together to read words

• Read with fluency and understanding

• Develop early writing and spelling skills

The programme is designed to support every child to succeed, regardless of their starting point.

How Phonics is Taught

Phonics teaching begins in Reception and continues through Key Stage 1, with additional support provided in Key Stage 2 where needed.

Children are taught in small, carefully matched groups based on their current phonics knowledge. These groups are regularly reviewed to ensure children are always working at the right level.

Each Read Write Inc. session includes:

• Revising sounds previously taught

• Learning new sounds

• Blending sounds to read words

• Reading decodable books matched to the sounds children know

• Developing comprehension and vocabulary
  
  

Reading Books

Children take home Read Write Inc. decodable books that closely match the sounds they are learning in school. This helps them to practise reading confidently and successfully at home.

Children will also bring home a library book to share with an adult for enjoyment and to develop a love of reading.

Supporting Reading at Home

We encourage parents and carers to support reading at home by:

• Listening to your child read their phonics book regularly

• Encouraging them to sound out and blend words independently

• Talking about the story and pictures to support understanding

• Sharing and enjoying books together

Further guidance on supporting phonics at home can be found on the Read Write Inc. parents’ website.

Assessment and Progress

Children’s phonics knowledge is assessed regularly to ensure they are making good progress. Assessments help us to:

• Place children in the correct phonics groups

• Identify children who may need extra support

• Ensure teaching is targeted and effective

Children in Year 1 complete the Phonics Screening Check, which assesses their ability to decode and read words.

Our Aim

Our aim is for every child to:

• Develop a strong foundation in phonics

• Read fluently and with confidence

• Enjoy reading and see themselves as readers

If you have any questions about phonics or early reading, please speak to your child’s class teacher.