Reading

Intent

At Bromet Primary School, we aim to inspire children to become lifelong readers who are fluent, confident, and passionate about books. By the time our pupils leave us, they will have developed a love of reading, an ability to explore diverse texts critically, and the skills to articulate their preferences and opinions.

Recognizing that reading for pleasure has declined in popularity in 2024, we are committed to reversing this trend by fostering a vibrant reading culture and ensuring every child finds joy in books.

Implementation

• Decodable Books in EYFS and KS1:
  In Early Years and Key Stage 1, we prioritize reading fluency by providing decodable books aligned with the phonics skills children are learning. This helps build confidence and a strong foundation for reading.

• Consistent Reading Structure Across Year Groups:
  From Year 1 to Year 6, we use a consistent teaching approach focused on exploring text extracts. These extracts introduce children to a wide range of writing styles, including fiction, non-fiction, and poetry, encouraging a broader appreciation for literature.

• Weekly Library Sessions and Dedicated Librarian:
  Each class participates in weekly library sessions, guided by our dedicated librarian. These sessions help children explore a variety of books, discover new interests, and make independent reading choices.

• Library Access After School:
  Our library remains open after school on a Monday, allowing children and their families to borrow books, fostering a love of reading that extends beyond the classroom and into their home lives.

• Pupil Voice in Book Choices:
  Once a term, pupil voice is gathered to ensure that the books in each class reflect the interests and preferences of the children. This feedback helps teachers and our librarian curate engaging collections that resonate with their readers.

• Reading Targets in KS2:
  In Key Stage 2, weekly discussions about reading targets encourage children to reflect on their progress and set goals to further their skills and enjoyment.

• Class Readers:
  Every class has a designated class reader, which provides a shared experience of high-quality literature and creates opportunities for class discussions about plot, characters, and themes.

• Promoting Teachers as Readers:
  Teachers actively share their reading experiences and enthusiasm with the children, modelling the importance and enjoyment of reading for pleasure.

Impact

By the end of each academic year, children are expected to meet Age-Related Expectations (ARE) in reading, with some achieving Greater Depth (GD). Children requiring additional support receive targeted interventions to help close gaps in their skills.

Through weekly library sessions, access to the library after school, and engaging children in book selection, we work to ensure reading becomes a cherished activity. By addressing the national decline in reading for pleasure and fostering a strong reading culture, Bromet Primary School empowers its pupils to carry a love of reading into their future education and beyond.