Phonics & Early Reading

Phonics is taught using Little Wandle Letters and Sounds, a resource which integrates phonics with comprehension, spelling and handwriting, using engaging partner work.

All staff in EYFS and KS1 have received extensive training and support using this resource to maximise progress and develop confident readers and writers.  Little Wandle sets out a detailed and systematic programme for teaching phonic skills for children starting by the age of five, with the aim of them becoming fluent readers by age seven. Based upon the latest research, Little Wandle Letters and Sounds ensures learning stays in children’s long term memory and enables children to apply their learning to become highly competent readers.

The resources on this page will help you support your child with their phonetic sounds and writing letters. There are also some useful videos so you can see how your child is taught at school; hopefully, allowing you to feel confident when supporting their reading at home.

What does a phonic session look like?

Information to be added...

How can I support my child at home?

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:

• 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.
• A sharing book. Your child will 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 do not worry that it iss too easy - your child needs to develop fluency and confidence in reading.

Listen to them read the book and remember to give them lots of praise - celebrate their success! If they cannot read a word, read it to them. It is very beneficial to talk about the book once you have finished reading it with your child: this is the early stages of comprehension.

Sharing 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 should not expect your child to read this alone. Read it to or with them, discuss the pictures and enjoy the story. You may wish to predict what might happen next, use different voices for the characters or explore the facts in a non-fiction book. The main thing is that your child has fun!

If you would like any more information, or require additional support, please do not hesitate to contact the school.