Our phonics journey begins in EYFS and is at the heart of everything we do! Phonics is taught systematically and actively to ensure learning is memorable and engaging. Phonics sessions are taught on a daily basis and are made up of learning sounds, using actions, playing games and reading words, following the Unlocking Letters and Sounds programme.
It aims to prepare children for learning to read by developing their phonic knowledge and skills. There are six phases which are taught from EYFS through to Year Two. Children are taught the different sounds that letters make as well as the different combinations. In addition to this, children progress through high frequency word lists that they need to learn to read and spell. Sessions also cover how to segment words into their separate sounds as well as how to blend sounds together to make words (which also supports spelling).
In June, all Year One children will be expected to undertake a statutory Phonics Screening. The aim is to check that a child is making the expected progress in phonics and using skills to decode unfamiliar words in their reading. The check comprises of a list of 40 words, both real and nonsense, which the child reads one-to-one with a teacher. For any children who do not pass the check, extra support will be given and they will then resit the test in Year 2. If they do not pass the test in Year 2 they will receive specific phonic interventions to meet their individual needs in Year 3.
Moving on, in Year 2 and 3 the children begin a spelling programme continuing to do so throughout the years into Year 6. This programme enables teachers to deliver active lessons for the learning of spelling. Not only do children gain knowledge, understanding and investigate key spelling patterns, they also activate prior knowledge by revisiting previous linked learning. This is delivered through a series of well-planned and resourced sessions during the course of the year. Where children will be introduced to new concepts then given the opportunity to practise, extend, explore and then explain and demonstrate their understanding.
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