Phonics

At Sinnington Community Primary School, we are committed to helping every child become a confident and fluent reader and writer. We follow the Read Write Inc. phonics programme, which provides a systematic, engaging approach to teaching phonics, reading, writing, handwriting, and spelling from the Foundation Stage through Key Stage 1—and beyond, where needed.

Our Approach to Phonics

Children in Early Years and Key Stage 1 take part in daily phonics lessons. These fast-paced sessions build strong decoding and encoding skills, using positive reinforcement and plenty of opportunities for active participation. Most pupils complete the Read Write Inc. programme by the end of Year 1. For those who need extra support, targeted teaching continues in Year 2 and into Key Stage 2.

Through Read Write Inc., children learn 40+ phonemes, alternative spellings, and the skills to blend sounds for reading and segment for spelling. Common exception words are also taught to build fluency. The programme is also used for intervention, including in Key Stage 2, where needed.

You can learn more about the programme at ruthmiskin.com and watch how we teach the sounds using the pure sounds video.

Assessment and Support

We regularly assess children’s phonics knowledge through daily observation and formal checks each half term. This helps us ensure all children are making progress and allows us to identify those who may benefit from additional support.

Every child in Year 1 takes the national Phonics Screening Check in the summer term. This assesses their ability to decode 40 real and ‘nonsense’ words. Results are shared with parents, and children who do not meet the expected standard will be rechecked in Year 2.

Where needed, we provide additional support through small group sessions, one-to-one tutoring, and targeted intervention. This helps children catch up quickly and continue to progress with confidence.

Phonics Beyond KS1

In Key Stage 2, we continue to support pupils who may still need help with phonics. Tailored resources and teaching help fill any gaps and strengthen core reading and writing skills.

Supporting at Home

We believe learning continues at home. Phonics homework may include:

• Practising spelling patterns using phonics skills

• Reading tasks linked to phonics sounds

• Letter formation activities

Our aim is for every child, regardless of ability or need, to become a successful and enthusiastic reader.