Phonics - Intent, implementation and impact

Intent 

The systematic teaching of phonics has a high priority throughout Foundation Stage and Key Stage 1. we also ensure that phonics is continued in lower KS2 and that assessments are completed in KS2 to ensure a secure understanding to support spellings and independent writing,

At Marsh Lane Primary School, we value reading as a key life skill and are dedicated to enabling our pupils to become lifelong readers. We acknowledge that children need to be taught the key skills in segmenting and blending to be equipped with the knowledge to be able to complete the phonics check at the end of year 1. We also value and encourage the pupils to read for enjoyment and recognise that this starts with the foundations of acquiring letter sounds, segmenting and blending skills.

Evidence has shown that a structured approach  to the delivery of phonics, is the most effective. we have therefore chosen to follow the ' Bug Club Phonics' accredited scheme, to support our delivery. This also aligns with our book scheme, to ensure that children are reading books which enhances their knowledge of phonics in context. 

Implementation 

Through the teaching of Bug Club phonics, the children are taught the essential skills needed for reading. Phonics is taught daily to all children in Foundation Stage, and KS1. Extra support is provided to those in Year 2 who have not passed phonics screening in Year 1 and interventions are planned for those children who are working below expected levels. Staff systematically teach learners the relationship between sounds and the written spelling patterns, or graphemes, which represent them. Pupils have regular reading sessions with an adult where we ensure the pupils are regularly practising and applying their phonics knowledge. In EYFS, the continuous provision matches the pupil’s current knowledge and understanding whilst ensuring the children are suitable challenged. Teachers regularly assess the pupil’s phonics knowledge using the phonics assessment. These regular assessments inform planning and allow teachers to identify any gaps in learning. The children have reading books which they are encouraged to read regularly at home which match their current phonics level.

We continue to ensure that pupils within KS2 are assessed where necessary to ensure that they have a secure knowledge of phase 5 phonics and this is included in their written work as well as demonstrated through their reading. Intervention continues for pupils who may not had secured the phonics screening at the end of KS1. 

Impact 

Through the teaching of systematic phonics, our aim is for children to become fluent readers by the end of Key Stage One. This way, children can focus on developing their fluency and comprehension as they move through the school. Attainment in phonics is measured by the Phonics Screening Test at the end of Year 1. However, we firmly believe that reading is the key to all learning and so the impact of our reading curriculum goes beyond the results of the statutory assessments.