Reading
Intent
Hetton Lyons Primary School puts reading at the heart of the curriculum. We believe that reading should open up a world of possibility and intrigue and is a fundamental life skill which, enables children to communicate effectively in all areas and equips them for the challenges they will face in the wider world.
Our reading curriculum is coherently planned and sequenced to ensure that all pupils develop secure decoding skills, fluency, comprehension and a rich vocabulary. It is aligned with and meets the statutory requirements of the National Curriculum for reading. Through a consistent, whole-school approach, children are taught to read systematically, enabling them to make strong progress from their starting points. Early reading is prioritised through a structured phonics programme, ensuring that pupils develop the foundations needed to read with confidence and accuracy.
We aim to have pupils leave Hetton Lyons as lifelong readers, who have an instilled love for reading in them. In order to do this, children are encouraged to read widely and are exposed to a variety of genres and high-quality texts. Reading for pleasure is actively promoted, recognising its importance in developing positive attitudes towards learning.
We are ambitious for all pupils and believe that the ability to read fluently and with understanding is essential to accessing the full curriculum and becoming successful, independent learners.
Our intent is that all pupils, including those who are disadvantaged and those with additional needs, become fluent, confident readers by the end of primary school. Through ongoing assessment, early identification and targeted support, we ensure that no child is left behind. By the time pupils leave Hetton Lyons Primary School, they are well prepared for the next stage of their education and equipped with the reading skills necessary for lifelong learning.
Implementation
At Hetton Lyons Primary School, reading is taught through a structured and consistent approach across the school:
- Phonics and Early Reading: We use the Little Wandle phonics programme to teach children in Reception and Key Stage 1 to read fluently and confidently. Where needed, this programme supports children in Key Stage 2 through targeted intervention.
- Whole Class Reading: In Year 3, children explore Little Wandle Fluency books during their whole class reading lessons and these rich chapter books help to develop prosody and also build stamina. Years 4 to 6 enjoy whole class reading lessons where they explore high-quality texts that develop fluency, comprehension, vocabulary and critical thinking skills. The carefully chosen texts expose children to different cultures, current themes and events as well as world celebrations.
- Accelerated Reader: This computer-based reading programme supports children in developing reading comprehension, fluency and independent reading skills. It is used effectively each day in Years 4 – 6 by matching children with books that are appropriately challenging based on their reading level. Children read regularly from a wide range of texts and complete short online quizzes to check understanding, helping teachers to monitor progress and identify next steps. The programme also motivates children by promoting reading choice, setting achievable targets and encouraging regular reading habits, which supports continued progress and a positive reading culture.
- Reading for Pleasure: Every day, time is dedicated to Storytime and sharing books for enjoyment, helping children develop a lifelong love of reading. Each week, every child has the opportunity to visit our school library where they are able to pick a book of their choice. Once a week, children enjoy taking part in Book Talk where there is an opportunity to share book recommendations, find out about new authors and express their views on different genres and their personal reading diets. Each class in Key Stage 2 have a Reading Scrapbook where children are able to record their books reflections. These are then shared and discussed with the class.
- Assessment and Support: Teachers regularly monitor progress, identify children who need extra help, and provide timely support to ensure every child can thrive as a reader.
- Home-School Partnership: We actively involve parents and carers in reading, providing opportunities to read with their children at school as well as guidance to support reading at home.
Impact
Through our reading curriculum, we aim for all pupils to:
- Develop the confidence and fluency to read a wide range of texts independently.
- Gain strong comprehension skills and a rich vocabulary to support learning across the curriculum.
- Enjoy reading and see it as a source of pleasure, inspiration, and curiosity.
- Make excellent progress from their individual starting points, including children who may require additional support.
- Be well prepared for the next stage of their education with the skills, knowledge, and enthusiasm needed to continue their reading journey.
Our approach ensures that children leave Hetton Lyons Primary School as confident, capable, and lifelong readers.
Library and Classroom Reading Areas
Hetton Lyons is proud to have an exceptional school library that offers a welcoming and inspiring space for reading. Stocked with high-quality texts from a wide range of authors and genres, the library encourages pupils to explore, discover and develop a lifelong love of reading. The inviting environment supports both independent reading and shared enjoyment of books across the school. Please take a look at a selection of images below to see how this vibrant space as well as our classroom reading areas supports our strong reading culture in action.
Reading in action
Take a look at some of our children enjoying reading in school, showcasing our strong and vibrant reading culture.
Author Visit
In the autumn term, Key Stage 2 had the exciting opportunity to welcome author Tom Percival to our school. He led a lively assembly where he introduced the children to his new book, sharing his stories in a fun and engaging way. The visit included book signings, interactive activities where pupils created their own illustrations, and even some exciting challenges that a few children took part in. Tom also delighted everyone by singing for the children, making the experience even more memorable. It was a fantastic event, and the children absolutely loved every moment.
World Book Day
We celebrate World Book Day each year, encouraging children to explore new stories and authors, making it a fun and engaging part of our commitment to reading for pleasure.
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