Phonics & Spelling

Phonics Intent, Implementation and Impact 

Intent 

At Bryn Offa, we are committed to ensuring that every child becomes a confident, fluent reader by the end of Key Stage 1. We recognise that phonics provides the foundations for reading and writing, and it is our intent to deliver a high-quality, consistent phonics programme that enables all children to decode words effectively and develop a love of reading from the very start. 

We follow the Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised programme to ensure a systematic and rigorous approach to phonics. Our aim is to support all children, including those who are disadvantaged or have additional needs, in developing secure phonic knowledge, fluency, and confidence in reading. 

Implementation 

• We follow the Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised programme with fidelity, beginning in the Foundation Stage and continuing through Key Stage 1, with additional support provided into Key Stage 2 where necessary. 

• Daily phonics lessons are taught in a clear progression, with consistent structure and pace across all year groups. Lessons are interactive, fast-paced, and engaging. 

• Children are assessed regularly to ensure they are taught at the correct level. Any children who fall behind receive daily catch-up interventions that are closely aligned to the programme. 

• Children read fully decodable books matched precisely to their phonics knowledge to ensure success and build reading confidence. These books are read in school and taken home to reinforce learning. 

• We provide ongoing staff training and coaching to ensure all adults are confident and consistent in their delivery of the programme. 

• Parents are supported through information sessions and regular communication so they can help reinforce phonics and early reading at home. 

Impact 

As a result of our consistent and rigorous approach to phonics: 

• The vast majority of children pass the Year 1 Phonics Screening Check and enter Key Stage 2 as fluent, confident readers. 

• Children develop strong decoding skills and quickly become independent readers who enjoy reading for pleasure. 

• Pupils who need additional support are swiftly identified and receive targeted, effective interventions, ensuring that no child is left behind. 

• Children use their phonic knowledge not only in reading but also in their early writing, enabling them to spell words and compose sentences with increasing accuracy and confidence. 

• Regular assessments show clear progress across all phonics phases, and internal monitoring confirms high-quality, consistent teaching. 

• By the end of KS1, our pupils are well-prepared for the demands of the wider English curriculum and are equipped with the foundational literacy skills essential for future learning.