Lytchett Matravers Primary School, Poole, Dorset

“The reading curriculum is now a strength of the school. Leaders have retrained staff in how to teach reading. Staff ensure they teach using the same methods and vocabulary.”

School Inspection: Good
Previous Inspection:

Ark Elvin Academy (secondary)

“A high number of pupils enter the school still struggling to read fluently. Leaders, therefore, make the explicit teaching of reading a high priority. For example, expert staff teach pupils new to English and those with significantly weak reading skills using a well-sequenced phonics programme.”

Ss John Fisher and Thomas More Catholic Primary School, Benchill, Manchester

“Early reading is a strength. Leaders ensure that staff are equipped well to deliver the phonics programme. They are quick to identify any pupils who are struggling with reading. Staff provide the right support for these pupils so that they can catch up quickly.”

School Inspection: Good
Previous Inspection: Good

Alder Grove Church of England Primary School, Shinfield, Berkshire

“Early reading and phonics teaching are highly effective, and these start strongly in the early years. Leaders have established rigorous, systematic approaches that support all pupils to develop the knowledge that they need.”

School Inspection: Good
Previous Inspection:

St Joseph Catholic Primary School, Watford, Hertfordshire 

“All staff are relentless in their drive to make sure that all the pupils have the skills they need to read with independence. Pupils’ reading knowledge is checked often. This allows teachers to adapt and change their planning to match pupils’ needs.”

School Inspection: Outstanding
Previous Inspection: Outstanding

Leen Mills Primary School, Hucknall, Nottinghamshire

“Frequent and accurate assessments mean that pupils who might fall behind are easily spotted. Teachers fill knowledge gaps quickly through extra phonics sessions.”

School Inspection: Good
Previous Inspection: Requires Improvement

Christopher Pickering Primary School, Hull 

“Leaders and staff prioritise reading, right from when children join the school. Well trained teaching staff ensure a consistent approach to how children learn to read and write. Those pupils who need additional help, benefit from effective support.”

School Inspection: Outstanding
Previous Inspection: Good

Hillborough Infant and Nursery School, Luton, Bedfordshire

“Leaders have introduced a well-planned reading curriculum. Pupils love reading. Staff are experts in teaching the rigorous phonics programme. Pupils quickly learn to decode words and develop fluency.”

School Inspection: Good
Previous Inspection: Good

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