Reading and Phonics

Reading and Phonics

Building literacy foundations for lifelong learning

Vision and Aims

At Notton House Academy, our Reading and Phonics provision is fundamental to all learning across the academy. We are committed to fostering a love of literature whilst developing functional literacy skills to improve vocabulary and provide pupils with the best life chances and success in future employment.

Our approach embodies the school's core values of Safety, Kindness, and Respect by creating a supportive learning environment where pupils feel secure developing their reading skills at their own pace. We understand that many of our pupils may have experienced difficulties with reading or educational trauma, so we focus on building confidence through a systematic, evidence-based approach that celebrates every step of progress.

How We Teach Reading and Phonics: Reading is promoted in every lesson, every day, and across the 24-hour curriculum in residential care. Phonics is taught daily using a systematic synthetic phonics programme that ensures progress for every pupil. Knowledge is introduced systematically, ensuring pupils have the foundation they need to become confident, independent readers.

Our Approach: Since March 2022, we have used Read Write Inc. Phonics resources, a DfE-validated systematic synthetic phonics programme. This whole-school approach to teaching early reading and writing is designed to ensure progress for every child. Our teachers and support staff have received comprehensive training to deliver this programme effectively.

Every pupil has targeted 1:1 literacy sessions delivered by a specialist based on their needs.

Drop Everything and Read: This is our whole academy approach to reading that fosters a love of literature and develops functional literacy skills. Every member of our community participates in this daily reading time, creating a culture where reading is valued and celebrated.

Sound of the Week: A great way for all learners, regardless of age and ability, to recap sounds, and also, to develop reading and vocabulary.

Word of the Week: Developing vocabulary use and understanding of language.

Sound of the Week and Word of the Week sessions are delivered during tutor time on a Monday morning.

Our commitment is to ensure that all pupils:

Develop systematic phonics knowledge to become confident decoders
Foster a genuine love of reading and literature
Build vocabulary and language skills essential for all learning
Gain literacy skills that enable full participation in society
Experience success in reading within a trauma-informed, nurturing environment

What Resources and Support are Available?

We provide comprehensive reading and phonics support to meet every pupil's needs:

Read Write Inc. Phonics Programme

DfE-validated systematic synthetic phonics approach
Daily phonics instruction for all pupils who need it
Structured progression ensuring secure foundations

Library and Reading Resources

Beautiful, well-stocked library with current books
Fiction and non-fiction texts for all reading levels
Range of audiobooks and magazines
Regular updates to maintain engaging, relevant collection

Whole-School Reading Culture

Daily "Drop Everything and Read" sessions
Reading is promoted across all curriculum areas
Reading integrated into residential care provision
Staff modelling love of reading throughout the academy

All resources and approaches are carefully matched to individual pupil needs and reading development.

How are Pupils Assessed?

Our assessment approach is designed to support reading development rather than simply measure it, reflecting our trauma-informed practice and commitment to individual growth.

Ongoing Assessment for Learning:

Daily phonics assessment to track systematic progression
Regular reading assessments to monitor comprehension and fluency
Individual reading conferences to celebrate progress and identify next steps

Progress Tracking:

Systematic tracking through Read Write Inc. phonics levels
Individual reading journeys are celebrated, recognising that progress looks different for every pupil
Regular monitoring ensures pupils receive an appropriate level of challenge and support

Reading Development Support:

Targeted intervention for pupils requiring additional phonics support
Stress-free assessment environment that builds confidence
Support is provided through regular THRIVE sessions, key working and therapeutic input when needed

Pathways and Life Opportunities

Strong literacy skills developed through our Reading and Phonics provision open doors to all areas of learning and life, directly supporting our mission to improve life opportunities for all pupils.

Foundation for All Learning: Reading and phonics skills provide the foundation for:

Effectively supports children to master the basics of reading
Build children's confidence and raise self-esteem
Improves engagement across all curriculum subjects
Develop crucial literacy skills that will carry them through life
Enhanced communication and language skills

Lifelong Benefits:

Critical thinking and analytical abilities
Confidence in written and spoken expression
Love of learning that continues beyond school

Strong literacy skills are essential for success in education, employment and life. The reading foundations we build enable pupils to access all other learning opportunities.

How Can You Support Your Child?

Encourage daily reading at home, sharing books together and discussing stories. Listen to your child read regularly and celebrate their progress. Visit libraries, bookshops and literary events to foster a love of reading. Reading together creates positive associations with books and develops the literacy skills essential for success in all areas of life.

Notton House Academy is part of Midsomer Norton Schools' Partnership