#wearereaders
At Swallowdale Primary, we are passionate about Reading and endeavour to create a culture where Reading is valued, loved and shared and the skills are taught progressively and purposefully from Reception to Year 6.
In Reception and Key Stage 1, each child will have a home reading book which is matched to their phonic level (based upon the Read, Write Inc scheme) and reading ability. In Year 2 and Key Stage 2, teachers use the Oxford Reading Scheme book levels to ensure every child’s home reader is matched to their need. The aim is for children to have school reading books they are able to decode, read fluently and comprehend. Children are also able to select a second book from the school library as a reading for pleasure book – children may require additional support to access this book as it may not be matched to their reading level.
In order for children to achieve well and become competent readers, we ask that children read aloud at home at least four times a week with an adult. Every child will have their own Home Reading Record for parents and carers to record shared reading.
Developing a Culture of Reading
We work hard to ensure that our culture in school develops a love of Reading; this is paramount to achieving well. In order to create a community of readers, we engage in many activities which inspire reading:
- Regularly read for pleasure and recommend books to children – in class and assembly;
- Use books to support our wider school curriculum;
- Send home regular Reading Newsletters which are full of recommendations;
- Celebrate regular reading at home with a range of rewards;
- Open our newly refurbished Key Stage 2 library at lunchtimes for children;
- Hold regular Reading Swap times where different members of staff share their favourite stories, texts and books with different year groups;
- Display staff and children’s recommendations in the main hall;
- Open our Reading Bus regularly for children and families to enjoy sharing stories together in a different environment;
- Hold parent events to inform and celebrate reading!
Reading Curriculum
Please see below for the documents outlining our Reading Curriculum.
