At Belvedere Nursery teachers use a synthetic phonics programme called ‘Read Write Inc’ produced by Ruth Miskin. The Read Write Inc. program, provides a structured and systematic approach to teaching literacy. It is a method of teaching reading which is centered around learning the sounds of the letters (phonics), and then blending them together to read words. The Read Write Inc. program is designed to create fluent readers, confident speakers and willing writers. Each Read Write Inc. program meets the higher expectations of the new curriculum and uses effective assessment to accelerate every child’s progress.

Providing children with numerous opportunities to develop their reading skills is of utmost importance to us. Activities, such as jigsaws, threading, matching and word recognition games provide a strong foundation of concept and skills. Children who develop strong pre-reading skills advance quickly and grow confidently and are more likely to develop a love for books and reading.

In nursery there are several ways in which we encourage children to write. We understand that all children are different and we strive to adapt and match the teaching to the needs of the child. We do this by using a wide range of marking and etching tools; pencils, pens and crayons. Sand trays will be readily available and frequently used to develop the child’s hand control, along with regular painting activities, which will inevitably improve hand-eye co-ordination, dexterity and above all preparation for writing. Here we believe that regular and consistent handwriting practise will establish ‘good habits’ and enable children to develop a legible handwriting style, ready for ‘big school’.