Learning and Teaching

Building Strong Readers at Our School

At our school, we are continually refining our reading practices to ensure every student develops the skills they need to become confident, capable readers. This year, we have introduced some exciting updates across all year levels.

In our Prep to Year 2 classrooms, students begin each day with the UFLI (University of Florida Literacy Institute) program. This structured approach provides explicit phonics instruction, helping students build a strong foundation in decoding words and understanding how letters and sounds work together.

In Years 3 and 4, our focus shifts to deepening students’ understanding of language through the explicit teaching of spelling, morphology (word parts), and grammar. These essential skills support students to read more complex texts and improve both their comprehension and writing.

Across Prep to Year 6, students engage in text-based units, where rich, high-quality texts are at the centre of learning. These units allow students to explore vocabulary, comprehension strategies, and writing in a meaningful and connected way.

A key focus for all students is developing fluency and accuracy in reading. Fluent readers are able to read smoothly, with expression, and at an appropriate pace, which allows them to better understand what they are reading. Accuracy ensures that students are correctly recognising words, which is essential for comprehension.

Families can play an important role in supporting this at home. Encouraging your child to read regularly, listening to them read aloud, and prompting them to re-read to improve smoothness and expression are simple but effective ways to build fluency. Taking time to talk about what they have read also strengthens understanding and enjoyment.

Together, we can support our students to become confident, fluent readers who develop a lifelong love of reading.

Deborah Courtney

(Director of Learning and Teaching)