Phonics
Read Write Inc. Phonics at Rectory
At Rectory, we use Read Write Inc. (RWI) to give children the very best start on their reading and phonics journey. RWI is a fun, structured phonics programme that helps children learn to read confidently, develop strong early literacy skills, and foster a lifelong love of books.
🌱 Starting Phonics in Nursery
In the Summer term, our Nursery children begin to explore early phonics using the RWI Nursery planning. This introduces them to the sounds around them through playful activities such as:
Listening games
Rhymes and songs
Storytelling
Sound exploration and oral blending
These activities lay the foundations for reading by building children's awareness of sounds, their listening skills, and their enjoyment of language.
🏫 Reception: Learning Sounds
When children join Reception, we allow them time to settle into school life and routines. By the second week of term, the children begin formally learning their first Set 1 sounds.
Through short, lively daily sessions, the children learn to:
Recognise sounds and corresponding letters
Blend sounds together to read words
Segment words to help them spell
Build confidence and fluency with reading
Our structured, consistent routines help every child feel successful and supported.
📚 How RWI Helps Your Child
Read Write Inc. is designed to help children make rapid progress by:
Using a systematic, structured approach
Teaching in small groups, matched to each child's ability
Providing lots of praise and encouragement
Using engaging storybooks that match the sounds children have learned
This means children experience success quickly, keeping them motivated and excited to read.
🤝 How You Can Help at Home
Parents and carers play a vital role in supporting early reading. Here are some simple things you can do:
Read together every day—even for just 5 minutes! Children will bring reading books home for you to share,
Encourage children to spot sounds they know in books or around the house
Celebrate their growing confidence
Talk about stories and ask questions
We also send home information and QR codes which link to activities to help you understand the sounds and routines we use.
