At Our Lady’s Catholic Primary School, we want every child to become a confident reader who enjoys books. Learning to read opens the door to the wider curriculum and helps children develop their knowledge, imagination and independence.

Learning to Read with Little Wandle

We use Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised to teach early reading through systematic synthetic phonics. Children learn the sounds represented by letters and groups of letters, then practise blending these sounds together to read words. They also learn to identify the sounds in words to support spelling.

The programme follows a carefully planned sequence, with regular opportunities to revisit and practise previous learning. This helps children build their knowledge step by step and become increasingly accurate and fluent readers.

Putting Phonics into Practice

Children practise reading with books matched to their secure phonics knowledge. This allows them to use the sounds they have learnt and experience success as readers.

As their reading develops, children learn to read with expression and talk about the meaning of what they have read. Teachers check understanding and identify where further teaching or practice is needed.

Supporting Every Reader

We recognise that children may need different amounts of practice and support. Our aim is to identify difficulties early and provide focused teaching that helps children secure the knowledge they need for their next steps.

Reading at Home

Families play an important part in helping children become confident readers. Two types of book serve different purposes:

• Reading practice books help children practise the phonics they already know. Reading a familiar book again develops fluency and confidence.

• Sharing books are for adults and children to enjoy together. Children are not expected to read these independently. Listening to stories and discussing pictures, characters and new words develops language and enjoyment.

Keep reading together relaxed and positive, celebrate your child’s successes and speak to their teacher if they are finding reading difficult.

Little Wandle’s parent resources include videos demonstrating how to pronounce sounds, guidance on blending and advice about reading at home.

Visit Little Wandle’s resources for parents and carers