Our approach to early reading is grounded in providing a strong, phonics-based foundation for all children, with each school in the Legacy Learning Trust selecting a phonics DfE approved programme that aligns with the needs of their own context. Across all of our schools, phonics teaching is delivered with fidelity, consistency, and purpose, ensuring that pupils develop confidence and competence in decoding from the very start of their school journey.

Sounds Write or Read Write Inc. (RWI), are the two evidence-based phonics programmes currently adopted by our schools. These programmes are tailored to meet the developmental readiness of pupils and are supported by continuous professional development for staff, ensuring that teachers have the knowledge and skills to deliver high-quality phonics instruction consistently.

Phonics lessons are taught explicitly every day from Reception onwards, in sessions that are brisk, engaging, and cumulative. Each lesson follows a clear, consistent structure: starting with a review of previously learned sounds, introducing and teaching new material, providing guided practice, and offering opportunities to apply the learning.

Through this carefully sequenced, systematic approach, pupils acquire the foundational skills that underpin fluent, confident reading, enabling them to access the full breadth of the curriculum with enjoyment and understanding.

All Legacy Learning Trust Primary schools:

• Demonstrate fidelity to their chosen programme, with teachers adhering closely to progression and routines
• Deliver daily, discrete phonics lessons from Reception through Key Stage 1
• Use decodable books aligned with the phonics progression
• Ensure regular, precise assessment to identify pupils who are not yet secure
• Provide immediate, focused interventions for pupils falling behind, delivered by well-trained staff to maintain progress and prevent gaps from widening

All staff receive regular, high-quality training to maintain programme fidelity and to ensure the consistent, expert teaching of phonics across every classroom. The ultimate goal is for every child to master the mechanics of reading early, freeing them to focus on understanding, enjoyment, and meaning.