At St John's Meads we teach reading through Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised, a systematic synthetic phonics programme.

Phonics begins in Reception and follows the Little Wandle progression, enabling children to build their knowledge of the alphabetic code and master phonics for reading and spelling as they move through school.

This approach ensures children can tackle unfamiliar words confidently. Staff model phonics and the alphabetic code in shared reading and writing across the curriculum. We also prioritise language development, recognising that strong speaking and listening skills are essential for reading and writing in every subject.

You can find more information and helpful resources on the
Little Wandle Letters & Sounds Revised website.

Why learning to read matters

• Reading supports all subject areas and improves life chances.
• Positive attitudes to reading bring academic, social and emotional benefits.

How children learn to read

• Phonics is the only route to decoding.
• Children learn phonic sounds, blend them to read words, and build fluency in reading sounds, words and books.

Reading fully decodable books

• Children read books matched to their phonic knowledge.
• Books must be fully decodable and follow the Little Wandle scheme.
• Children progress through books in sequence until they can decode unfamiliar words confidently.

The role of parents and carers

• Parents have a significant impact on their child’s reading.
• Modelling regular reading practice supports fluency.
• Reading at home builds a love of books, vocabulary and discussion.
• Parents can support by using expression, discussing new vocabulary, talking about pictures and predicting events.
• Positive, specific feedback and written comments in reading records are encouraged.