At William Rhodes, we believe that all children can become fluent readers and writers: this is why we follow Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised.

Our children begin their journey to become fluent readers in our nursery setting, where they are taught foundation for phonics to prepare them for their learning in reception. Phonics lessons are taught in reception and key stage one and, for those children who have still not quite mastered fluency in reading at key stage two, phonics sessions are timetabled regularly. 

We know how important reading is: it is the gateway to the whole curriculum and the foundation of lifelong learning. This is why we are fostering a school reading community where we are all readers. We are developing our library and book corners to ensure that we have brilliant books to engage our children, which are suited to their interests. Each week, we introduce a new author of the week and we add some books to our library for the children to enjoy. In at least one of our assemblies each week, a picture book is shared as a way of exploring an issue, an event or simply to enjoy. 

Reading is a priority and story time is timetabled in all classrooms, each day. At any opportunity, our teachers may share a poem or rhyme with the children and weekly 'book clubs' take place in class, so that children can browse, discuss and share books.