Reading Culture

At our school, we believe that reading opens doors to imagination, creativity, knowledge and opportunity, and we are committed to developing confident, enthusiastic readers who enjoy reading for both pleasure and purpose.

We aim to create a rich reading culture where books, stories and discussion are woven throughout school life. Through high-quality texts, engaging reading experiences and strong partnerships with families, we encourage every child to develop a lifelong love of reading.

Reading in School

Children experience reading in many different ways throughout the school day. These include:

• daily story time in every class

• inviting class reading areas and book corners

• guided reading sessions with whole classes and small groups

• reading across the curriculum through carefully chosen texts and further reading lists

• themed days and learning experiences based around high-quality texts

• regular library visits

• reading buddies, where older pupils share books with younger children

Reading is celebrated across the school and children are encouraged to talk about books, recommend favourites and develop confidence as readers.

Early Reading

In Reception and Key Stage 1, children begin their reading journey through our Little Wandle phonics programme. Further information about our phonics provision can be found on our dedicated phonics page.

Children take home reading books that are closely matched to their current phonic knowledge to support fluency and confidence. Alongside this, children also bring home a carefully selected ‘love of reading’ book to share and enjoy with their families.

We also offer a KS1 Reading Club throughout the year to further nurture enjoyment and enthusiasm for reading.

Promoting a Love of Reading

We are passionate about creating memorable reading experiences and celebrating books throughout the year. Some of the ways we promote reading for pleasure include:

• Rogan Mills, annual storyteller visit, during National Storytelling Week

• annual Book Bingo reading challenges

• our annual book fair

• celebrating World Book Day across the school

• Year 6 Reading Ambassadors who promote reading and support younger pupils

• recommended reading lists linked to curriculum texts and topics

• celebrating theme days centred around a quality text

We are currently fully involved in the National Year of Reading initiative and continue to explore new and exciting ways to inspire children to read widely and often.

Reading at Home

We value the important role families play in supporting children’s reading development. Reading at home is encouraged regularly and celebrated across the school.

Children use reading diaries to record and share their reading experiences, while Year 6 pupils log their reading minutes to encourage independence and reading stamina. Reading achievements are recognised through certificates and celebrations, helping to motivate and inspire our young readers.

By working together, we aim to ensure every child develops the confidence, fluency and enjoyment needed to become a successful lifelong reader.