At Wallop Primary School, we recognise that reading and writing are foundational to our curriculum and essential for effective communication and learning across all subjects. Our English policy aims to cultivate a holistic approach where these skills are not only central to academic success but also vital for students' engagement with the broader world.

We strive to instil a love of reading and writing in our pupils, understanding their power to unlock knowledge, enhance imagination, and develop critical thinking. By fostering a positive attitude towards literacy, we aim to equip our children with the confidence and competence necessary for meaningful interactions both in their educational journey and in everyday life.

Our commitment to oracy ensures that verbal communication complements reading and writing, enhancing students’ ability to articulate their thoughts and engage in productive dialogue. Together, we aspire to create a vibrant learning environment that embraces the richness of language as a tool for lifelong learning and personal growth.

Phonics and Early Reading

Little Wandle 

At Wallop Primary, we believe reading is the key to success. It unlocks the whole curriculum and gives children the best chance to achieve not only at school but also as adults. Phonics is the foundation of reading, and we teach it daily in Reception and Year 1 through Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised, a complete systematic synthetic phonics programme (SSP). 

Children regularly revisit sounds and words so that their knowledge becomes secure and automatic. If any child needs extra support, we provide immediate “keep-up” sessions to help them catch up quickly.

Books are carefully matched to each child’s phonics stage, so they can practise with confidence both in school and at home. Alongside these decodable books, children also bring home a sharing book to enjoy with an adult. This helps to build not only their skills but also a love of reading.

Children in Year 2 and KS2 who still require support with phonics and reading fluency access the Little Wandle rapid catch up programme. We believe every child can learn to read with help from our enthusiastic teachers and the high quality programme provided by Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised.

Use this link to access the Little Wandle for Parents page, where you can access resources and videos to help you support your child at home with learning to read fluently: Little Wandle Parent Access

You can find our Little Wandle progression for Reception and Year 1 in the link below.

Reading Beyond Phonics

Our reading curriculum aims to provide children with the skills necessary to become confident readers as well as fostering a love for reading which will stay with children for life. All children receive regular discrete and structured teaching of reading which is carefully matched to their age and stage. For further information, please check our English policy (available below).

Writing

Our writing curriculum aims to provide children with the skills necessary to become confident writers and support them in having the ability to communicate effectively for a range of purposes. All writing units are led by text drivers to stimulate curiosity and inspire writing.  The curriculum map (available below) organises objectives across the year and across key stages to ensure coverage.