The teaching of phonics from an early age has been shown to be an effective way of teaching children to read – especially when using a structured method. The method recommended by the DfES is “Letters and Sounds” and this is used in Collierley Primary School. The sounds the children need to learn have been split into a structured approach taught throughout Early Years and Key Stage One. The overview for this approach is available here: phonics longterm overview.
Although the overview gives recommendations for when these phonics are taught, at Collierley primary we understand that children learn at different rates. The children in Key Stage One are taught from Phase 2 to phase 6 and then they access the Year 2 Spelling scheme.
Any children who need extra phonics support are given extra time taught in keep up groups to allow phonics teaching to be accessible to all.
In Year 1 children take the phonic screening test.
This guide provides more information and tips for parents. It also explains about the Phonics Check all children complete at the end of Year 1.
