Curriculum

As we wrap up a busy and productive term, we want to acknowledge the incredible effort of our teachers and students. Our dedicated staff have completed Semester 1 assessments, written detailed reports, and are already preparing for an exciting Term 3. We also take this moment to celebrate our students—not just for their academic growth, but for the effort, resilience, and positive attitudes they bring to their learning each day. Growth isn’t always linear, and every step forward, no matter how big or small, is worth recognising. We are so proud of what our school community has achieved this term!

Below is a reminder of the importance of reading each night and setting up successful routines for your children that will help shape their academic trajectory. 

The Power of Reading at Home: Why Decodable Books Matter

At Skye Primary School, we know that strong reading skills are the foundation of all learning. One of the most important ways families can support this at home is through regular reading with their child—especially using decodable readers.

What Are Decodable Readers?

Decodable readers are specially designed books that match what your child is learning in class. These books contain words that follow regular sound patterns (like cat, ship, or jump), which helps children practise sounding out words (decoding) using their phonics knowledge. They’re carefully sequenced, so children are only asked to read what they’ve already learned. This builds confidence, fluency, and independence.

Why Is Reading Every Night Important?

Reading at home—even for just 10 to 15 minutes a night—can make a huge difference. Here’s why:

• 📚 Practice Makes Progress: Just like practising a sport or musical instrument, regular reading helps children improve faster.
• 💬 Builds Vocabulary & Understanding: Reading exposes children to new words and ideas.
• 🤝 Supports School Learning: Home reading reinforces classroom learning and helps children apply new skills.
• 💖 Creates Special Moments: Sharing a book each night is also a wonderful way to connect, calm down, and enjoy time together.

What You Can Do at Home

• Use the Home Reader Packs: These are sent home to practise the exact sounds and words your child is learning in class - You can also access all our LLLL decodables that have been assigned to your child online through the online platform.
• Let Them Read to You: Encourage your child to try sounding out words, and celebrate their effort—not just perfection.
• Reread for Fluency: Repeating a book helps build reading speed, confidence, and expression.
• Talk About the Book: Ask questions like “What happened in the story?” or “What was your favourite part?”

Long-Term Impact: What the Research Says

Research consistently shows that children who read daily are more likely to succeed academically over the long term. According to a study by the OECD, students who read for pleasure daily scored significantly higher in reading, maths, and science than those who rarely read. Regular reading builds comprehension skills, critical thinking, and general knowledge—all of which contribute to success across every subject area. It’s a small investment each day with a powerful impact on your child’s future learning.

Together, We Grow Readers

By making reading a fun and consistent part of your nightly routine, you are helping lay the groundwork for your child’s success—not just in school, but in life.

If you have any questions about your child’s home readers or how to support their reading journey, please reach out to your classroom teacher. We’re here to help!

Have a wonderful winter break and I can't wait to continue watching the incredible work happening each and every day next term.

Mr Snow