What if learning to read could be one of the most joyful parts of childhood?

Stories have the power to transport, to comfort, to inspire and to help children make sense of themselves and the world around them. They introduce new vocabulary, nurture imagination, spark curiosity and provide countless opportunities for meaningful conversation. For this reason, stories sit at the very heart of life in our EYFS, not simply because reading is fundamental to future learning, but because books have the power to enrich lives and open doors to endless possibilities.

Children are immersed in high-quality texts from the moment they enter school. Whether gathered together to share a favourite picture book, joining in with a familiar tale, exploring information texts or retelling stories through role play and imaginative play, children quickly discover that reading is not merely something we do at school, but one of life's great pleasures. We want children to develop a genuine love of books and stories, understanding that reading can bring joy, comfort, knowledge and wonder throughout their lives.

Research consistently highlights the importance of early language and literacy experiences in shaping children's future learning and wellbeing. Through rich conversation, storytelling, songs and rhymes, children develop vocabulary, comprehension and confidence, building strong foundations that will support them across the curriculum and beyond. We recognise that learning to read is one of the most significant milestones in a child's educational journey, and we are committed to ensuring that every child experiences success and develops confidence as a reader.

Early reading is taught through Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised, providing a systematic and carefully sequenced approach to phonics that enables children to build knowledge and understanding step by step. Through engaging daily lessons, children develop the skills needed to decode words, whilst also developing fluency and growing confidence in their own abilities. As their knowledge develops, children apply what they have learnt through fully decodable books from the Collins Big Cat reading scheme, allowing them to experience success and enjoy the satisfaction that comes from becoming increasingly independent readers.

Reading is woven throughout school life. Adults model a love of books, children are encouraged to discuss stories and share recommendations, and opportunities to read and write emerge naturally through play, enquiry and meaningful experiences. Writing begins with conversation and storytelling, gradually developing into mark-making, drawing and early writing opportunities that help children communicate their ideas and express themselves with growing confidence. We want children to see themselves as authors and storytellers, understanding that their thoughts, experiences and imagination are worthy of being shared.

Above all, we want children to associate reading with warmth, joy and belonging. We want them to experience the excitement of discovering a new story, the comfort of revisiting a much-loved book and the pride that comes from reading independently for the first time. Our aim is not simply to teach children how to read. It is to help them discover that reading is one of life's great pleasures and to nurture a love of literature that will remain with them long after they leave our EYFS.