We strive to ensure that all children become fluent, thoughtful readers who can engage with a wide range of texts. Our curriculum prioritises fluency and comprehension to reduce cognitive load and build reading stamina. Through rich texts and explicit teaching, pupils develop confidence, curiosity and critical thinking. Our approach is underpinned by research from the DfE Reading Guidance, EEF Guidance Report, Ofsted’s English Report and Strong Foundations.

We want all children to become fluent, confident readers. At Holywell, we believe every child can engage with and enjoy texts that challenge, inspire and inform. We encourage reading across the curriculum; enabling pupils to make meaningful connections between subjects, themes and real-world issues.

We nurture a love of reading by providing access to diverse, high-quality texts and opportunities for pupils to read widely and for pleasure and we prepare children for their next steps through a structured, inclusive curriculum underpinned by strong pedagogy, research and regular CPD for staff.

We provide experiences that inspire a lifelong love of reading:​

• Visits from authors, poets and storytellers to bring literature to life​
• Regular trips to school and community libraries ​
• Theatre visits and performances to support comprehension and engagement with narrative​
• Reading rewards and incentives, including 'Starbooks' and book swaps