Phonics

Phonics at Tarvin: Read Write Inc.

At Tarvin Primary School, we teach early reading using Read Write Inc. Phonics, a systematic synthetic phonics programme developed by Ruth Miskin and validated by the Department for Education. Our aim is simple: for every child to learn to read fluently and confidently, so they can go on to enjoy reading and use it to learn across the whole curriculum.

How it works

Children begin Read Write Inc. in Reception and continue until they can read with fluency, usually by the end of Year 2. They take part in a phonics session every day, where they learn the sounds that letters make (Speed Sounds) and how to blend them together to read words. Children are taught to "Fred Talk" with the help of Fred the Frog, who can only speak in sounds. They also learn "red words", the tricky words that can't be sounded out in the usual way. Alongside reading, children practise writing the letters and spelling words using the sounds they have learned.

Reading books matched to their learning

Children read storybooks that are closely matched to the sounds they know, so they can succeed from the very start. Each book is read several times across the week, first to build accurate decoding, then fluency, and finally understanding and expression. Children also bring home a book that matches their phonics level, so they can practise reading with you and show off what they have learned.

Assessment and keeping up

We assess every child's progress regularly and group children by their reading level, so each child is taught at exactly the right stage. Any child who needs extra help gets quick, targeted support, often through short one-to-one sessions, so they keep up rather than having to catch up. In Year 1, children take the national Phonics Screening Check, and any child who needs further support continues with Read Write Inc. into Year 2 and beyond.

Consistency across the school

All staff who teach phonics are trained in Read Write Inc., and we follow the programme faithfully. That means every child hears the same language, routines and expectations in every group, which helps them learn quickly and confidently.

How you can help at home

Reading with your child every day makes a real difference. Please listen to your child read their phonics book, praise their effort, and encourage them to use their Fred Talk to sound out words. Ruth Miskin Training has short videos for parents on its website, showing how to say each sound correctly. If you have any questions about your child's reading, please speak to your child's class teacher.