At Swavesey Primary School we recognise that proficiency in reading is vital for pupils' success across the curriculum. By following our synthetic phonics programme, Little Wandle, building on a plethora of rich and varied texts from our reading spines and developing a love of reading, we aim to establish positive reading habits that drive pupils' education and emotional wellbeing. 

Reading For Pleasure At Swavesey Primary School

Reading for pleasure is a whole-school priority.

Reading enjoyment has been reported as more important for children’s educational success than their family’s socio-economic status (OECD, 2002). We believe that the whole school Reading for Pleasure culture must be ‘lived’ by all members of staff as well as being embedded into the school structure and routines. It is everyone’s responsibility to promote and maintain the enjoyment of reading.

Dedicated time is put aside each day to read with the children; this may involve the teacher modelling and teaching reading skills, listening to readers and the teacher reading to the children. When reading aloud, we do not stop unnecessarily to ask clarification/comprehension questions. Instead, we allow the story to weave its own magic, only pausing occasionally where necessary to define any important vocabulary.

We strongly encourage reading at home and support parents to understand how to read to/with their children. Teachers promote reading for pleasure through making recommendations and informal book talk. Book corners are well-used spaces stocked with high-quality texts. All children visit the school library at least fortnightly and can borrow books.

Look through our gallery to see some of the events that have been taking place to help promote the love of reading.