Phonics

In KS1 children are taught phonics using Letters and Sounds continued through selected intervention, such as Sound Discovery, for pupils who require support in KS2.  We recognise that many pupils with a diagnosis of Autism do not learn to read using a synthetic phonics approach, where sounds are taught in isolation – therefore the teaching of reading and phonic development is enhanced through personalised learning programmes where pupils are given opportunities to play games with sounds, listen to sounds and use a variety of support materials and IT based provision.

English lessons in Primary are based around aspects of the Talk for Writing approach, with teachers using high quality texts to facilitate discussion and writing. We recognise that pupils with Autism Spectrum Disorders may struggle with imaginative and creative writing.; in response to this teachers use shared and guided writing to develop our learners’ skills to write creatively and powerfully. This approach will be supported by weaving aspects of ‘Lis n Tell ’from Attention Autism to promote active learning. 

For further information on the Primary English Curriculum please see Overview of Formal Primary Curriculum.