Phonics
Intent
At Sidlesham Primary School, we recognise that phonics is the essential foundation for reading and writing. We are committed to ensuring that every child becomes a confident, fluent reader as quickly as possible, opening the door to the full curriculum and the wider world.
Our aim is for all pupils to:
- Decode unfamiliar words with accuracy and automaticity
- Develop fluency that supports strong comprehension
- Apply their phonics knowledge confidently in writing
- Build a genuine love of reading for pleasure
We believe reading is central to life chances. Through high-quality phonics teaching, we ensure children are equipped not only with the mechanics of reading, but also the confidence and independence to succeed.
To achieve this, we use the Read Write Inc. Phonics programme, which provides a structured, systematic and evidence-informed approach to early reading and writing.
Subject Overview
Implementation
Phonics is taught with consistency, precision and high expectations across the school.
Daily Teaching
- Daily phonics sessions take place in Reception and Key Stage 1 (5 sessions per week)
- Sessions are structured, fast-paced and highly interactive
- Teaching follows a clear progression from simple to more complex sounds
Each session includes:
- Review of previously taught sounds
- Explicit teaching of a new sound
- Practice in blending (reading) and segmenting (spelling)
- Application through reading carefully matched texts
Progression of Learning
- Reception: Learn single sounds and “special friends” (e.g. sh, ch, oo) and begin blending to read words
- Key Stage 1: Secure Set 2 and Set 3 sounds, including alternative spellings (e.g. ai, ay, a-e) and apply these in reading and writing
- Key Stage 2: Targeted phonics interventions for pupils who need additional support
Adaptive Teaching
- Pupils are grouped by reading ability to ensure teaching is precisely matched
- Groups are fluid and responsive to assessment
- Additional ‘keep-up’ interventions are used to prevent pupils from falling behind
Assessment and Monitoring
- Half-termly assessments using Read Write Inc.
- Ongoing teacher assessment within lessons
- Year 1 Phonics Screening Check (statutory)
- Year 2 re-check where required
Assessment is used to:
- Identify gaps quickly
- Adapt teaching and regroup pupils
- Ensure rapid progress for all learners
Wider Reading Culture
- Fully decodable books matched to each child’s phonics stage are sent home
- Regular phonics workshops support parents in helping their children
- Consistent use of phonics strategies across the curriculum
- Classrooms promote independence through sound charts and prompts
Impact
The impact of our phonics teaching is seen in both outcomes and attitudes.
By the end of Key Stage 1, pupils:
- Read with fluency, accuracy and increasing confidence
- Decode unfamiliar words independently
- Apply phonics knowledge effectively in writing
- Are well prepared for the demands of Key Stage 2
We evaluate impact through:
- Year 1 Phonics Screening Check outcomes
- EYFS and Key Stage 1 attainment
- Internal Read Write Inc. assessments
- Termly Testbase reading assessments
- Termly FFT Fluency and Decoding Assessments
- Ongoing teacher assessment and pupil voice
Beyond data, pupils demonstrate:
- Confidence when approaching new texts
- Resilience in tackling unfamiliar words
- Enjoyment of reading and engagement with books
Supporting Your Child at Home
We value strong partnerships with parents and carers. Supporting phonics at home makes a significant difference.
You can help by:
- Listening to your child read daily
- Practising sounds using the QR codes below
- Encouraging blending rather than guessing
- Keeping reading positive and enjoyable
Read Write Inc. Resources
read write inc qr codes set 1.pdf