Building Blocks of Literacy

Literacy is more than just a subject or a box to check in the daily schedule—it's the key to understanding and exploring, and it unlocks the ability. to fully engage with the world around us

In our early years program, we lay a strong foundation for reading and writing by combining structured phonics instruction with play-based exploration. Our goal is that every child develops the skills and confidence to become a lifelong reader and thinker.​

A Balanced Approach to Literacy

Our literacy instruction is designed to be both systematic and joyful. We integrate formal phonics lessons in small groups (students are matched by ability) with opportunities for children to explore language through rich stories, conversations, and creative play. This balanced approach ensures that students not only learn the mechanics of reading but also develop a genuine love for language and storytelling.​

Implementing Read Write Inc. Phonics

To provide a solid foundation in phonics, we utilize the Read Write Inc. (RWI) program, a structured and evidence-based approach to teaching reading from Oxford Press. RWI focuses on teaching children the sounds in English, the letters that represent them, and how to blend these sounds to read words. The program includes reading books written using only the letters and sounds that students have learned, allowing them to build confidence and fluency as they progress.

Small Group Instruction for Personalized Learning

Recognizing that each child learns at their own pace, we conduct phonics instruction in small groups four times per week. These groups are tailored to the students' current skill levels, allowing for targeted teaching that meets each learner's needs. This personalized approach ensures that all students receive the support and challenge necessary to develop their reading abilities effectively.

Integrating Literacy Across the Curriculum

The reality is that literacy is not confined to a single subject area. We weave reading and writing into all aspects of our curriculum, from science and social studies to art and project-based learning. By engaging with texts across various contexts, inviting visiting authors to our school, and going to the library, students see the relevance of literacy in their everyday lives and are motivated to apply their skills in meaningful ways.​

Fostering a Community of Readers

Reading is ultimately a social activity that thrives in a supportive community. Our classrooms are rich with opportunities for shared reading, storytelling, and discussions about books. By creating a culture that celebrates reading, we encourage students to view themselves as capable readers and enthusiastic participants in the world of literature.​

At Brightworks, our commitment to literacy is grounded in the understanding that reading is essential for accessing information, expressing ideas, and connecting with others. Through our thoughtful integration of structured phonics instruction and engaging literacy experiences, we empower students to become confident readers and lifelong learners.​

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Learn more about Read Write Inc.

This video, taken from the Ruth Miskin website, explains a bit more about the program:

Read daily!

Not only does Read Write Inc provide curriculum for schools, but they also offer fantastic resources for parents. Their site is a great place to find out about how the students are learning to read and what you can do to help at home!

Get some fresh ideas for encouraging your child’s reading at home, check out the RWI online eBook library with access to over 130 free books and find out more about how reading is taught in school.

There’s also a handy guide to understanding phonics and information on the reading programs used at Brightworks. 

More resources for reading at home with your child

There are lots of websites available to help your child with their phonics:

Phonics play https://www.phonicsplay.co.uk/

ICT games https://www.ictgames.com/mobilePage/literacy.html

Family learning http://www.familylearning.org.uk/phonics_games.html

Social Emotional Learning

Social Emotional Learning cannot be a standalone class, and cannot be taught as subject. It has to be lived, in every moment, and it is at the core of everything we do at Brightworks.

In the early years, play leverages the brain’s natural curiosity to explore. It leads to child-led discoveries, group collaboration, and building all the things that make good humans…self-discipline, self-direction, collaborative problem, and the habits of life-long learning.

Anthony Consiglio—Director of Community, Slowness, Caring, and Jokes—speaks here about our approach to SEL at Brightworks.