Phonics Information

At Pilsley C of E Primary School, children begin their phonics journey in Nursery through a language-rich environment that develops the skills needed for reading and writing. We follow the Read Write Inc. approach, introducing children to early phonological awareness through engaging, practical and play-based experiences.

Children develop their listening and attention skills through stories, songs, rhymes and games. They learn to hear and identify environmental sounds, recognise patterns in words, enjoy rhyming activities and begin to distinguish between different speech sounds. Alongside this, we place a strong emphasis on developing vocabulary and communication skills, ensuring children have secure foundations for future learning.

As children become ready, they are introduced to letter sounds and begin learning the first Set 1 sounds from the Read Write Inc. programme. Through a range of adult-led and child-initiated activities, children learn to recognise sounds, practise oral blending and develop confidence in speaking and listening.

Our Nursery curriculum is carefully designed to build children's confidence, curiosity and love of language, ensuring they are well-prepared for the next stage of their phonics learning in Reception.

What Nursery Children Learn Through Phonics

Children are supported to:

• Enjoy stories, songs and rhymes every day.
• Listen carefully and identify sounds in the environment.
• Recognise rhyme and alliteration.
• Develop a growing vocabulary through talk and play.
• Participate in speaking and listening activities.
• Begin to learn the first Read Write Inc. Set 1 sounds when ready.
• Develop early blending skills through "Fred Talk".
• Build confidence and enjoyment in reading and communication.

How We Support Learning

We know that children develop at different rates. Through high-quality interactions, careful observation and adaptive teaching, practitioners ensure that every child is supported and challenged appropriately. Our inclusive approach enables all children to make progress from their individual starting points and develop the communication, language and early reading skills needed for future success.