Reading at St Richard’s Primary School

At St Richard’s Primary School, reading is a fundamental priority and underpins the entire curriculum. We are committed to ensuring that all pupils become fluent, confident readers who develop a lifelong enjoyment of reading, in line with the expectations of the National Curriculum for England.

Reading begins in the Early Years Foundation Stage through the systematic, synthetic phonics scheme Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised. This programme is delivered daily and provides children with a structured and consistent approach to early reading. Children are taught to decode words accurately and to build fluency through carefully matched, fully decodable texts. Regular assessment ensures that teaching is closely aligned to each child’s developing phonics knowledge, and timely intervention is provided where needed.

As pupils progress through Key Stage 1 and into Key Stage 2, reading development is supported through the Accelerated Reader programme. Children select books that are appropriately matched to their reading ability, identified through regular assessments. After completing each book, pupils complete an online quiz to assess comprehension and understanding. This allows teachers to monitor progress, identify strengths and next steps, and ensure continued challenge.

Through structured teaching, assessment, and a strong reading culture, St Richard’s ensures that all pupils are supported to achieve reading success.