Phonics

Pupils at Holy Cross are taught a wide range of strategies in order to help them read and write, including Phonics.

Through a combination of individual Phonics sessions, clear modelling and varied opportunities for practise, pupils have fun learning effective strategies to help them decode, read and spell words. Reception and Key Stage 1 pupils are taught a 20 minute Phonics lesson each day using the six phase ‘Letters and Sounds’ programme. Pupils also learn actions and songs linked to the Jolly Phonics Programme (Phase 2 example).

In each lesson pupils will:
·    Review their previous learning
·    Be taught a new phonics skill 
·    Practise their new skill
·    Apply this skill in reading and writing 

At the end of Year 1, pupils take part in a national Phonics screening check; the results of which are shared with parents. Any pupils who do not reach the expected level by the end of Year 1 receive targeted support and are reassessed formally at the end of Year 2.