English - RWI Phonics and Handwriting

Phonics and Early Reading

Curriculum Intent

At Otterburn Primary School & Nursery, we believe that the ability to read fluently and confidently is the foundation for success across the curriculum and beyond. Our intent is for all pupils to become confident, fluent readers as early as possible, enabling them to access learning independently and to develop a lifelong love of reading.

We aim to ensure that:

• All children learn to decode efficiently and accurately

• Reading is prioritised from the very start of school

• Gaps in learning are identified quickly and addressed promptly

• No child is left behind in early reading

Early reading and phonics are taught through the systematic, synthetic phonics programme Read Write Inc. (RWI).

Curriculum Implementation

Phonics teaching

• Phonics is taught daily from Nursery and Reception onwards

• Lessons follow the structured RWI programme and are delivered in small, ability-matched groups

• Children are regularly assessed and regrouped to ensure teaching precisely matches their current stage of learning

• Staff delivering phonics receive ongoing training and support to ensure consistent, high-quality teaching

Children learn to:

1. Read individual sounds (Speed Sounds)

2. Blend sounds to read words using Fred Talk

3. Read fully decodable texts matched to the sounds they know

Children begin with Set 1 sounds, including early “special friends” (such as sh, ch, th), before progressing through Set 2 and Set 3 sounds, which introduce more complex spelling patterns.

Pupils who require additional support, including older pupils, continue to receive targeted phonics teaching where appropriate.

Reading practice and exposure to books

• Children read fully decodable books that closely match the sounds they have learned

• Reading books are sent home to support practice and fluency

• Adults read aloud to children every day, exposing them to high-quality texts, rich language and varied vocabulary

• Story time is carefully planned to support language development, comprehension and enjoyment of reading

Supporting families and learning at home

We recognise the importance of working in partnership with families. To support this, we provide:

• Reading and sound books to practise phonics at home

• Guidance booklets explaining how to support reading and use Fred Talk

• QR codes and web links to short phonics and handwriting videos that mirror classroom teaching

• Clear expectations and consistent routines for reading at home

These resources help ensure continuity between school and home and support parents to feel confident in helping their child.

Handwriting and Letter Formation

Handwriting is taught alongside phonics using the Read Write Inc. handwriting approach, ensuring consistency between letter formation and sound learning.

Children are taught to:

• Form letters correctly using RWI rhymes and phrases

• Sit letters accurately on the line

• Develop good pencil grip and writing posture

• Build fluency through regular, short practice

Handwriting videos and QR codes are also provided for home practice, ensuring a consistent approach.

Curriculum Impact

The impact of our phonics and early reading curriculum is seen in:

• Children developing secure decoding skills and increasing reading fluency

• Pupils becoming confident, enthusiastic readers who enjoy books

• Rapid identification and support for children who need additional help

• Strong foundations for spelling, writing and comprehension across the curriculum

Assessment information is used regularly to:

• Monitor progress

• Identify gaps

• Adapt teaching and provide targeted support