At Hamstead Primary School, we use the Little Wandle Letters and Sounds systematic synthetic phonics programme (SSP).
This is a fully comprehensive programme where ‘Foundations for phonics’ begins in nursery and enables children to develop their sound awareness through nursery rhymes and games ready for Reception.
Children start learning single letter sounds in the autumn term of their Reception year and it builds in progression throughout Reception and Year One, preparing children for the statutory phonics screening that takes place at the end of year 1.
We ensure every child in Year 2 or above who cannot read at age-related expectations gets urgent, targeted support through the ‘Rapid Catch Up’ programme so that they can access the curriculum and enjoy reading as soon as possible.
Phonics is taught in focused lessons every day and children learn to apply their phonics skills in reading practise sessions 3 times a week, developing their decoding, fluency, and comprehension skills along the way.
You can find more support for parents by clicking on the link below: For parents | Letters and Sounds (littlewandlelettersandsounds.org.uk). Here you will find lots of support on how to help your child learn the sounds as well as guidance on interacting with reading books that are sent home.
Please see your child’s individual class pages for in depth half termly guidance and revision.