Building confident readers
Reading at Westwood Academy
At Westwood Academy, we believe that reading is the key to learning, independence and future opportunities.
Strong reading skills help pupils access the curriculum, communicate confidently, develop their understanding of the world and take an active part in everyday life. We want every pupil to leave Westwood with the skills, confidence and motivation to read successfully.
We understand that some pupils may arrive with gaps in their reading development or with limited confidence in reading. Our role is to provide the right support, at the right time, so that every pupil can make progress from their individual starting point.
Further information:
Supporting every pupil
Reading ability is assessed when pupils join Westwood Academy. This helps staff understand each pupil’s strengths, identify any gaps and plan the support they need.
Pupils who need additional help receive targeted support to develop their reading accuracy, fluency, comprehension and vocabulary. Progress is reviewed regularly so that support remains responsive to individual need.
Reading across the curriculum
Reading is developed across all areas of school life, not only in English lessons.
Teachers support pupils to understand subject-specific vocabulary, read instructions, explore information and develop the confidence to engage with a wide range of texts. Guided reading, shared reading and independent reading all help pupils build knowledge and confidence over time.
Reading for pleasure
We want pupils to enjoy reading as well as develop the skills they need to succeed.
Pupils have access to engaging, age-appropriate reading materials that reflect a range of interests, experiences and reading levels. Through our library, tutor-time reading and reading initiatives, pupils are encouraged to discover books, authors and topics that matter to them.
Reading for pleasure helps pupils develop imagination, empathy, curiosity and a lifelong interest in learning.
Working together
Staff work closely with pupils and families to encourage positive reading habits both in school and at home.
By placing reading at the heart of our curriculum, we help pupils become confident learners who are better prepared for further education, training, employment and adult life.
Reading for Enjoyment
We help pupils discover books, authors and stories that reflect their interests, build confidence and make reading an enjoyable part of everyday life.
Reading Together
Shared reading, discussion and trusted adult support help pupils explore ideas, develop vocabulary and build positive reading habits.
A Love of Books
From fiction and poetry to graphic novels and non-fiction, pupils are encouraged to find reading that inspires curiosity, imagination and a lifelong love of learning.
