PHONICS & READING

At St Columba’s Catholic Primary, we teach reading through Little Wandle, Letters and Sounds Revised.  Little Wandle is a DfE validated scheme.

Little Wandleis a systematic and synthetic phonics programme.  We start teaching phonics in Nursery/Reception and follow the Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised progression, which ensures children build on their growing knowledge of the alphabetic code, mastering phonics to read and spell as they move through school.

Supporting your child with reading

Although your child will be taught to read at school, you can have a huge impact on their reading journey by continuing their practice at home.

There are two types of reading book that your child may bring home:

1. A reading practice book. This will be at the correct phonic stage for your child. They should be able to read this fluently and independently. This book may be an eBook.

2. A sharing book. Your child may not be able to read this on their own. This book is for you both to read and enjoy together.

Reading practice book

This book has been carefully matched to your child’s current reading level. If your child is reading it with little help, please don’t worry that it’s too easy – your child needs to develop fluency and confidence in reading.

Listen to them read the book. Remember to give them lots of praise – celebrate their success! After they have finished, talk about the book together.

Sharing book (Reading for Pleasure book)

In order to encourage your child to become a lifelong reader, it is important that they learn to read for pleasure. The sharing book is a book they have chosen for you to enjoy together.

Please remember that you shouldn’t expect your child to read this alone. Read it to or with them. Discuss the pictures, enjoy the story, predict what might happen next, use different voices for the characters, explore the facts in a non-fiction book. The main thing is that you have fun!

More information for parents is available at Curriculum Evenings, Parents Evenings and through our yearly overviews which can be accessed via the right hand menu.

Information for parents about Little Wandle is available here: Little Wandle Information for Parents