At Sandhurst School we believe that a quality Literacy curriculum should develop children’s love of reading, writing and discussion. We understand the importance of Literacy and the impact it can have on students’ academic achievements. Young people who read daily in their free time are twice as likely to read above the level expected for their age than children who don’t read daily (National Literacy Trust, 2019). Literacy is key to academic success across the curriculum and Sandhurst School is committed to supporting students to read, write and communicate effectively in all of their subjects. We create a culture where children take pride in their writing and we want to inspire children to be confident in the art of speaking and listening and who can use discussion to communicate and further their learning. We believe that a secure basis in Literacy skills is crucial to a high quality education and will give our children the tools they need to participate fully as a member of society.
STAR Reader
At the start of every term each student completes a STAR Reading assessment. STAR Reading is a computer-adaptive test that measures reading comprehension and vocabulary skills. It helps us to understand each student’s reading level and make sure they are reading materials that are both challenging and appropriate. Following the assessment, letters are sent home to parents and carers informing them of their reading age.
Where students are performing on or above their age-related expectations in reading comprehension and vocabulary we support students outside of English lessons with their reading through the tutor reading programme and the library is open every lunchtime as a quiet reading space.
Where students are performing below their age-related expectations we may support them with reading mentoring or other interventions during morning tutor time.
Tutor Time Reading
Every tutor group reads twice a week with their tutor during tutor time. Please see more information here: Tutor Time Reading.
Sparx Reading Programme – Years 7 to 9
We believe that strong communication between school and home is essential for promoting reading success so we encourage you to support your child by ensuring that they fully engage with their Sparx homework and always bring a reading book to school. The launch of the SPARX reading programme has made a very positive impact on the literacy skills of KS3 pupils. Reading Ages have made clear improvements, with Year 7 experiencing a 41.7% increase, Year 8 a 48.1% increase, and Year 9 a 43.8% increase. If you have any questions about Sparx reader homework or the support your child is receiving in their English lessons please contact their English Teacher.
Reading for Pleasure
Studies show that reading for pleasure outside of school and talking about literature at home can have a very positive impact on a child’s reading age. Should you wish to support your child with their reading at home I have attached a poster from the Open University with ideas on how you can support and further information can be found on their website: www.ourfp.org.