Literacy

Reading is an incredibly important life skill which ensures that all students can succeed both inside and outside of school.

Today’s curriculum requires students to be able to access increasingly complex texts as a means of achieving qualifications in a variety of subject areas. Similarly, reading also opens countless doors for students beyond the school gates.

Being able to read proficiently ensures that students can go on to further study, operate within new and exciting careers and, perhaps most importantly, engage in the world around them. Current research indicates that there is a strong correlation between high literacy levels and academic achievement; we want students to have the opportunity to lead happy and fulfilled lives.

Our library is well stocked with an extensive range of fiction books, suitable for all ages, abilities and tastes. There is something suited to all reading abilities. We also stock a wide range of non-fiction texts to allow students to pursue their own interests. There are computers available in the library that students can use to complete home learning or to read texts online.

We promote and celebrate reading for pleasure. All students in Year 7 and Year 8 access a reading lesson each week, where they will have the opportunity to read diverse and challenging texts which widen their cultural capital.

During reading lessons, students get the opportunity to discuss their reading habits or hear recommendations from other students. Students can also access a number of co-curricular opportunities where reading for pleasure is celebrated.

Reading Plus is an online intervention package which adapts to the reading needs of each individual student. Identified students will use this during school time to improve their reading abilities, in bespoke intervention sessions. Through this platform, they can read a wide range of fiction or non-fiction, from a range of genres.

We encourage students to read at home for 20 minutes every evening. This not only supports students to improve their reading but also provides opportunity to relax at the end of the school day.

The school has a well-stocked library where students can borrow books for free. We also have a strong relationship with Pontefract Library, who have a diverse range of children’s and teenage fiction and non-fiction.

We would encourage all parents and carers to talk about reading with their child and to encourage them to develop effective reading habits whilst at school, as these habits can last a lifetime.