Phonics

At Cheriton we follow the Fischer Family Trust 'Success for All' phonics which is a complete systematic synthetic phonics (SSP) programme that has been validated by the Department for Education.

Children in Foundation Stage and KS1 are taught a discrete phonics lesson daily and progress is rigorously monitored to ensure that they are well prepared for the Year 1 Phonics Screen that takes place in Term 6. Strategies are put in place for children who may need some additional support. Research shows that when phonics is taught in a structured way - starting with the easiest sounds, progressing through to the most complex - it’s the most effective way of teaching young children to read. It’s particularly helpful for children aged 5–7.

Foundation Stage and Year One parents are invited to attend extremely popular ‘phonics workshops’ in Terms 1 or 2 and then later in Term 5. These are run by the Class teachers and the English Subject Leader.

In Year 2 children continue to study phonics to embed learning and to further skills.

In KS2, children may still require regular phonics input. This can be delivered either through whole class teaching or more targeted support in small groups with a skilled Teaching Assistant.

Further information about learning to read through phonics can be found in this leaflet.