^{At Hadrian Primary, we prepare pupils for their futures and recognise the paramount importance of all aspects of English. Reading, oracy, writing, grammar and spelling, are skills that are fundamental to unlocking all areas of the curriculum and, just as important, the world around them. We are proud of our English curriculum, which promotes high standards of language and literacy by means of equipping children with a strong command of the spoken and written word. A love of literature is cultivated in school through a rich and varied curriculum that encourages exploration and engagement with diverse texts. By incorporating classic and contemporary works, staff ignite the imagination of pupils and inspire their critical thinking. A supportive environment for discussion and interpretation, enables pupils to articulate their thoughts and emotions, enhancing their appreciation for the written word. These experiences, encompassed with widespread reading across the curriculum, daily DEAR sessions and reading for pleasure, nurture and create a lifelong passion for literature.}

 

       

                                         

Reading for Pleasure

At Hadrian, we have cultivated an ethos and environment that truly values reading, inspiring our children to become enthusiastic readers. Our carefully planned reading provision and established routines, such as DEAR (Drop Everything And Read) time, Reading Buddies, and Reading Plus, create a structured yet enjoyable approach to reading. These initiatives nurture a love for literature and encourage students to explore various genres and authors.

Each classroom features dedicated book areas, designed to promote rich reading experiences through a diverse selection of accessible texts. Our school and class libraries are thoughtfully curated, with books attractively displayed to invite independent browsing. We regularly review our book stock to ensure it reflects the diversity of our school community and the wider world, allowing our pupils to see themselves represented in the stories they read.

We actively involve our children in the selection of books for our libraries, ensuring their voices are heard and valued. High-quality, age-appropriate picture books are readily available throughout the school, enriching our pupils’ literary experiences. Additionally, class visits to The Word (our local library) provide opportunities for children to join the library, select books to borrow, and engage with the local reading community.

Our commitment to promoting reading is further demonstrated through book fairs, pre-loved book sales, and vibrant celebrations of World Book Day. Staff members serve as reading role models, passionately encouraging students to explore the world of literature. Themed reading challenges, such as those during Christmas and Easter, add an element of excitement and motivation.

DEAR time prioritises at least fifteen minutes each day for staff to read aloud to children, allowing them to experience stories that may be beyond their independent reach. This practice not only exposes them to sophisticated texts but also embeds a shared enjoyment of literature. For our youngest learners in EYFS and Year 1, audio stories are available during continuous provision, enhancing their engagement with storytelling.

Our English curriculum is built around high-quality books that lend themselves to sustained study, encouraging meaningful responses and inspiring writing experiences. We provide frequent opportunities for students to discuss their reading as a whole class, exploring author intent and vocabulary choices, which strengthens our reading community. Through drama and role-play activities, we actively explore texts, making reading a dynamic and interactive experience.

 

     Enjoying books that we borrowed from our local library, The Word. 

          

          

 

Reading for Pleasure- useful websites to help promote a love of reading.

• www.ReadingZone.com
  This site helps young people, parents and teachers to find out about children’s books. There is information about new and classic titles with expert advice to help you find the best children’s books available. Children's Zones have games and activities and a specialist School Zone full of helpful resources.

• www.lovereading4schools.co.uk
  This site has reading lists from Year 1 to Year 9. Free downloads of the openings of books to sample once subscribed. Subscription is free.

• www.childrensbooks.co.uk
  Provides a number of links with different websites of authors and illustrators.

• www.wordpool.co.uk
  A site for both children and parents, with advice on choosing books and encouraging reluctant readers.

• www.booktrust.org.uk
  Provides a book information service and has information about awards and publications.