Phonics Lead: Sam Dean

At Wightwick Hall School we follow Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised, a systematic and structured phonics programme that supports learners at all stages of reading development. The scheme provides clear teaching routines, high quality resources and a carefully sequenced progression that allows every learner to build knowledge in small, manageable steps.

We teach phonics through daily whole class sessions and targeted intervention groups. This ensures that all pupils receive consistent exposure to sounds and graphemes while also accessing additional support where needed.

Why We Chose Little Wandle

We selected Little Wandle because it is an inclusive, research informed programme that aligns closely with the needs of our learners with Special Educational Needs. It offers:

A highly structured progression

The small step sequence supports memory, repetition and mastery, which is essential for learners who require overlearning and consistent routines.

Clear visual and verbal scaffolding

The programme includes accessible visuals, repetition of key language and consistent teaching sequences which help pupils understand and predict what will happen next. This reduces anxiety and promotes confidence.

Strong alignment with reading practice

Little Wandle provides matched decodable texts that allow pupils to apply their phonics skills immediately. This helps them experience success, strengthens independence and builds motivation to read for pleasure.

A multi sensory approach

Resources support visual, auditory and kinaesthetic learning which is particularly valuable for SEN pupils who benefit from varied input and sensory rich instruction.

High quality assessment and intervention

Regular checks allow staff to identify gaps quickly and provide timely support. Interventions are short, structured and focused, helping pupils secure the sounds they need to progress.

How Little Wandle Promotes Independence for SEN Learners

Our approach to phonics is designed not only to teach reading but also to support wider independence. Through Little Wandle, pupils learn to:

• decode words independently using taught strategies
• apply phonics skills in everyday reading tasks
• build confidence and reduce reliance on adult support
• develop positive attitudes towards reading
• recognise familiar words in the community such as signs, menus and instructions
• transfer communication skills into real world contexts

By embedding phonics within the wider curriculum, pupils gradually develop the ability to navigate text independently, which supports Preparation for Adulthood, confidence and functional literacy.

How We Teach Phonics

• Daily whole class teaching for consistency and shared learning
• Regular intervention sessions tailored to need
• Use of matched decodable books for reading practice
• Frequent assessment to identify gaps
• Adult modelling and repeated practice to support overlearning
• Integration of phonics into real life contexts across the school day

All teaching is adapted to align with EHCP outcomes and individual learning profiles.

Useful Resources for Parents and Carers

Little Wandle provides a range of high quality resources to support reading at home. Families can access videos, guidance and examples of how phonics is taught in school.

Parent Support Page

https://www.littlewandle.org.uk/resources/for-parents

Direct links to useful sections:

How We Teach Phonics
https://www.littlewandle.org.uk/resources/for-parents/#tabnametabHowWeTeach

Support for Reading at Home

https://www.littlewandle.org.uk/resources/for-parents/#tabnametabReadingTogether