In recent years, we have implemented several initiatives to create a strong reading culture within the academy and provide students with the foundations for future academic study.
We regularly assess each student's reading ability throughout the year using the 'New Group Reading Test' (NGRT) – a test which compares students' reading skills against the national average. We use these results to set up academy-wide support, such as reading intervention groups, to help all students reach and exceed their chronological reading age.
Creating a reading environment
The library is structured into an organised space where students feel comfortable interacting with displays, reading materials, and using technology to support their learning. It is open from 7:30am until 4pm where our librarian is on hand to offer support and help students engage in reading.
Students in Years 7/8/9 have timetabled library time each week, and Year 10/11 students have a dedicated study space to help them prepare for their GCSEs.
Reading success is shared in weekly assemblies. Group and individual achievements are acknowledged and commended.
We are in the process of creating designated reading areas around the academy to encourage and ensure readers feel comfortable taking a moment to engage in reading in spaces other than the library.
Encouraging Reading for Pleasure
As well as our library being available before and after school we have dedicated 'Reading for Pleasure' Library lessons during English lesson time. These sessions vary depending on the reading ability of the students. The sessions are led by teachers who use a range of Ark signature reading strategies. We also offer small group reading intervention by our Inclusion team for those who are in need of the most support.
Reading within the Curriculum
- This year, we have also signed all learners who are below their chronological reading age to Lexia. This is an interactive computer-based reading program that supports readers to become fluent in their reading. The programme can be used in school and at home and tracks and monitors usage and progress. Lexia is responsive and adaptive to individual strengths and weaknesses so really does specifically support the needs of each learner.
- We have implemented an additional reading intervention this year, Lexonik which is designed to accelerate progress in reading. This intervention is run by two trained staff and is delivered in a small group environment of 4:1. This six-session programme can have rapid impact in which 24 months reading age improvement can be achieved.