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Literacy

South Devon UTC Literacy Policy (2025–26)

Building Confident Readers, Writers & Speakers

 

Why Literacy Matters

At South Devon UTC, we know literacy is the key to learning and life. Reading, writing, speaking, and listening allow students to access the curriculum, gain confidence, and achieve their potential. We are committed to helping every student read at or above their age level.

 

How We Support Literacy

 

Across all subjects:

  • Teachers explicitly teach key vocabulary for each subject.
  • Guided reading helps students understand texts and improve comprehension.
  • Reading opportunities are embedded across the curriculum, not just in English.

 

Assessment & Targeted Support:

  • All students complete reading assessments (NGRT) on entry and at the end of each year.
  • Students who need extra support are given diagnostic tests (YARC) to identify specific needs.
  • Interventions include:
    • Fresh Start Phonics – decoding, fluency, and word reading
    • Small-group or 1:1 support from trained staff

 

Reading for Pleasure:

  • Tutor reading sessions, Sparx Reader, and library access encourage enjoyment.
  • Students have choice and guidance to explore texts they enjoy.

 

Oracy & Writing:

  • Discussion, partner talk, and purposeful writing tasks support reading and understanding.
  • Writing is linked to reading through vocabulary, sentence structure, and subject-specific tasks.

 

How We Track Progress

  • Progress is monitored using NGRT, YARC, phonics data, Sparx Reader reports and end of cycle assessments
  • Reading support is reviewed regularly to ensure students are improving.
  • Student surveys help us understand their interests, challenges, and reading habits.

 

How Parents Can Help

  • Encourage reading at home and explore your child’s interests.
  • Ask about Sparx Reader, tutor reading, or library activities.
  • Support your child in developing reading habits — even 10–15 minutes daily makes a difference.
  • Celebrate effort and enjoyment, not just test results.

 

Our Commitment

At South Devon UTC, literacy is everyone’s responsibility. We work to ensure that every student becomes a confident reader, writer, and speaker, ready for further study, work, and life.