Reading

Intent 

At Salehurst CE Primary School, we understand the importance of reading as a vital tool in English lessons, but also to unlock understanding in all other subjects.  Therefore we aim to develop positive attitudes towards reading so that every child thinks of themselves as a reader and has a love of the written word in all its various forms. Our intention is to create a community of readers that share, enjoy and promote reading as a skill and as a pleasurable pastime. 

Implementation 

​Our reading lessons are delivered through a diverse range of strategies including guided reading (in Key Stage 1), whole class, text analysis, discrete phonics teaching, shared peer and 1:1 reading. Furthermore, to promote a love of reading, teachers share a class text with children, reading it to them to allow all to engage in the text.  Modelling reading with expression, timing and enthusiasm is used to promote ‘a reading voice’ in the children.   

Reading and the teaching of reading are an integral part of the day. This means that the reading of texts and teaching of reading skills is evident in all lessons as we examine a range of texts related to the learning that is happening; this is led by class teachers and supported by teaching assistants. All children are supported, challenged and developed as readers.  

For children in Reception and Key Stage One (and for selected readers in Key Stage Two), class teachers undertake a benchmarking assessment which determines the colour book band that the children will read at school and home.  These books are kept in shared areas and children change their books (aided where necessary) knowing which colour book band they are reading within and working towards.   

​All classes contain a range of high quality fiction books for children to enjoy at school and at home. These are renewed regularly to ensure that children have the opportunity to read a range of material. Non-fiction books are available alongside fiction books in classrooms for children to take home to read. This helps to develop children’s general knowledge and their interest in a range of subjects. In Key Stage One, the children are able to take a book of their choice from their classroom, alongside the book banded colour books. 

Classes often link with other year groups to take part in shared reading with other children; this again promotes discussion of a text and the enjoyment of reading. 
 

Impact 

The impact of our reading curriculum is evident in the enthusiasm that the children have for reading. They are confident readers and show enjoyment in this.  Our reading results are also above the national average and county results.