Phonics & Early Reading
Why Phonics Matters
Learning to read is one of the most important things a child will ever do — and at Furzedown, we are committed to making sure every single child gets there. Phonics is the foundation: the key that unlocks written language and gives children the confidence to read independently, fluently and with enjoyment.
We believe that all children can become readers and writers. With the right teaching, the right support and high expectations for every pupil, every child at Furzedown can crack the code.
Phonics at Furzedown
We teach phonics using the Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised programme — a rigorous, carefully sequenced synthetic phonics scheme that gives children a secure and systematic understanding of how letters and sounds work together.
Phonics teaching begins in Nursery and Reception, with children building their knowledge of the alphabetic code progressively as they move through school. Daily phonics sessions are lively, engaging and carefully paced, ensuring that children develop not only their decoding skills but also their confidence and love of reading from the very start.
The application of phonics extends beyond the phonics lesson itself. Children are supported to use their phonics knowledge in their reading and writing across the school day — in shared reading, in independent writing, and throughout the wider curriculum. Teachers and teaching assistants model the use of the alphabetic code consistently, reinforcing skills and ensuring children can apply what they know with growing independence.
We also place a strong emphasis on spoken language, recognising that speaking and listening are the essential foundations for reading and writing. Rich vocabulary, careful listening and confident oral expression are developed alongside phonics skills throughout the early years and beyond.
Children who need additional support receive timely, targeted intervention to ensure that no child is left behind. We monitor progress carefully and work closely with families to make sure every child has the best possible start on their reading journey.
Growing Confident Readers from the Very Start
By the time children complete our phonics programme, they have the skills, knowledge and confidence to tackle unfamiliar words independently — and the love of reading to want to. They leave the early stages of school as fluent, enthusiastic readers who are ready to explore everything that literature has to offer.
Find out more about our English Curriculum here: