Our Intent

At Ordsall Primary School, we believe that reading is the gateway to learning and the foundation for success across the curriculum. Through our vision — “Play, Learn and Grow Together” — we aim to ensure that every child not only learns to read but develops a genuine love of reading that lasts a lifetime.

Our intent is that every pupil will:

• Develop the phonetic knowledge and decoding skills needed to become fluent, confident readers;
• Build a rich vocabulary and deep understanding of language and meaning;
• Apply their reading skills to access, interpret and enjoy a wide range of texts; and
• Foster curiosity, empathy and imagination through a love of literature.

Reading sits at the heart of our curriculum — it underpins all learning and embodies our mission to help every child “be the best that they can be.”

Our Implementation

Early Reading and Phonics (EYFS and Key Stage 1)

We follow the highly regarded Read Write Inc. (RWI) programme to deliver systematic, high-quality phonics teaching across our Early Years and Key Stage 1. This ensures that all pupils — regardless of their starting point — gain a strong foundation in word recognition, blending and fluency.

Children that are not on track with their reading receive daily targeted interventions, and progress is closely tracked to ensure rapid improvement. EYFS children also experience daily story sessions and language-rich environments that build vocabulary and comprehension from the very start.

Fluency and Comprehension (Transition to Key Stage 2)

When pupils are secure in phonics, they move into a whole-class reading approach that focuses on developing fluency, expression and comprehension. Lessons include modelled and echo reading, vocabulary exploration and discussion of high-quality texts chosen to reflect different cultures, time periods and experiences.

Reading in Key Stage 2

Across KS2, pupils are taught to think and respond as readers — to retrieve, infer, predict, summarise and analyse language. Carefully sequenced lessons develop disciplinary knowledge, helping children understand how authors create meaning, mood and impact. Class novels, poetry and non-fiction texts are used to deepen understanding and make links with other subjects.

A Culture of Reading for Pleasure

Reading for pleasure is woven throughout school life. Each classroom has a welcoming reading area and access to our well-stocked library, where pupils explore classic and contemporary authors. Daily ‘read and relax’ sessions give children time to enjoy books independently or with a friend, building confidence, curiosity and creativity.
Reading events such as World Book Day, author visits and book-themed challenges further celebrate reading across our community.

Our Impact

We measure the impact of our reading curriculum through:

• Ongoing phonics assessments, fluency checks and comprehension tracking;
• Lesson visits and book looks to ensure consistency and progression;
• Pupil voice interviews to explore reading habits, confidence and enjoyment;
• Data analysis for all groups, ensuring gaps close for SEND and disadvantaged pupils; and
• National outcomes such as the Phonics Screening Check, KS1 and KS2 reading results.

The impact of our approach is seen daily in children’s enthusiasm for books, their increasing fluency and comprehension, and their ability to talk confidently about what they read. By the time they leave Ordsall Primary School, pupils are independent, motivated readers — ready to succeed in the next stage of their education and beyond.