Reading Progression
At St. Augustine’s Catholic Primary School, the teaching of English lies at the heart of our curriculum. We are committed to fostering an appreciation for the richness of the English language and its heritage. Our dedicated staff work to understand the diverse needs of each learner and that every child’s starting point is recognised and celebrated. Progress is carefully monitored to help every child achieve their full potential and enjoy the satisfaction of success in reading.
We aim to nurture confident communicators who excel in speaking, listening, and thoughtful discussion, using these skills to deepen their learning. Our vision is for children to develop a solid foundation in English, with clear and structured progression as they journey through the primary curriculum. This foundation equips our pupils with essential skills, empowering them to engage fully in society and pursue their ambitions.
Implementation
To achieve these aims, we give daily exposure to quality texts within our English writing 'themes', as well as use a cross-curricular approach to allow children to explore exciting texts and stories that support learning in other subjects. This approach ensures that reading objectives are taught all throughout the school day, not just discreetly, giving all children consistent opportunities to read and engage with high-quality texts.
Reading
At St. Augustine’s, reading is not just a skill but a passion we aim to instil in every child. Our pupils are encouraged to develop independence, a love for reading, and an appreciation for diverse and enriching vocabulary, making these elements integral to every lesson. Throughout the school, displays celebrate our love of reading, showcasing pupils’ and staff's favourite books.
Reading is celebrated as a community, with events such as World Book Day, parent phonics workshops, and exciting book fairs. These activities not only enrich learning but also foster a culture where reading is valued and enjoyed. We believe well-structured and inspiring teaching in English is the cornerstone of an excellent education. As such, our curriculum ensures that every child experiences purposeful, progressive, and engaging lessons that prepare them for future success.
Library and Reading Spaces
Our school library is a cherished space, alive with opportunities to explore books and spark imagination. The library offers a welcoming environment where children can read, borrow books, and find stories to captivate their minds. From fiction to non-fiction, poetry to picture books, the library’s collection supports children of all ages and interests.
The library also serves as a hub for learning during the school day, offering children quiet spaces to read or work with adults during curriculum time. Beyond the library, classrooms feature inviting and well-organised reading corners, designed to encourage a love of books and independent exploration. These spaces reflect our commitment to making reading a core part of every child’s school experience and providing them with the tools they need to flourish.