Reading and Phonics

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Reading
We aim to ensure that all pupils at RFA fall in love with reading! This is because evidence suggests that children who read for enjoyment every day not only perform better in school but also develop a broader vocabulary, general knowledge and understanding of other cultures.

Reading Themes
From entry, pupils are given a schemed reading book which is matched to their reading abilities and a large picture book to read at home each night. We expect parents to share these books with their children each night. These reading books are changed on a weekly basis and children’s progress with their reading is monitored by teachers regularly in order to ensure that pupils are being given books which match their reading capabilities. The main source of books which are sent home are from the Collins Big Cat and Rigby Star reading schemes. These books are grouped into colours and provide appropriate levels of challenge for our pupils as they progress through book bands

RFA are also members of 'Bug Club'; an exciting online reading scheme that pupils access at home. Guided reading takes place each week where pupils work in a group with pupils of similar ability exploring and discussing texts in detail. This really helps to get their comprehension skills off the ground and is a lovely opportunity to discuss the craft of writing a fiction/non-fiction book.

Phonics
High quality, daily phonics teaching at RFA begins in Reception and continues throughout KS1. At RFA, the Letters and Sound phonics programme is used. Interventions are run to support children who may need additional support throughout the Key Stages. Children are taught in small groups to ensure they receive the teaching that is best suited to their abilities. Phonics workshops are delivered for parents to enable them to support their children at home.