Intent
At St Cuthbert’s, we believe that every child is entitled to a language-rich English curriculum where they develop a love of reading, an appreciation of the spoken and written word, and the confidence to communicate effectively. Reading is at the heart of our curriculum because we recognise it as the key that unlocks learning across all subjects and enables children to become successful, lifelong learners.
We recognise that the foundations of reading begin in the Early Years through a high-quality curriculum centred on Communication and Language. Many of our children begin school with limited language experiences and vocabulary; therefore, developing children’s spoken language, oracy and vocabulary is a priority from the earliest stages of their education. As an inclusive school, we provide an ambitious curriculum that builds on children’s starting points, ensuring every child has the opportunity to achieve their full potential and develop the knowledge, language and confidence needed to access the wider curriculum and life beyond school.
We believe that reading is a passport to the world and are committed to creating a strong culture of reading for pleasure throughout our school. By placing high-quality literature at the centre of our curriculum, children are immersed in rich and diverse texts that broaden their understanding of themselves, others and the world around them. Through carefully chosen fiction, non-fiction and poetry, children encounter new ideas, cultures, experiences and perspectives, enabling them to develop culturally, emotionally, intellectually, socially and spiritually.
Alongside developing fluent, confident readers, we place great importance on discussion, vocabulary and comprehension. We encourage children to think critically, articulate their ideas, justify their opinions and engage in meaningful dialogue about the texts they read. Through rich literary experiences and purposeful talk, children develop the knowledge, curiosity and confidence to become thoughtful readers and effective communicators.
We believe reading should be celebrated across our school community. Children are provided with meaningful opportunities to share their reading, speaking and performance through assemblies, speech choir festivals, productions, debates and other enrichment experiences. Our aim is that every child leaves our school not only as a skilled reader but with a lifelong love of books, a rich bank of memorable literary experiences and the confidence to use language successfully throughout their education and beyond.