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Head of Primary Message Week 4

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Reading at ISB 📚

This week, I’d like to share with you some insights into how we approach reading at ISB, why it matters so deeply, and how you can continue to support your child at home.



The Reading Journey at ISB

From Pre-Kindy through to Year 6, reading is at the heart of everything we do. We use the Scarborough Reading Rope as a guiding framework: children become skilled readers when both strands are strong


  • Language comprehension (talk, vocabulary, storytelling, discussion)

  • Word recognition (phonics, decoding, fluency)


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These strands are woven together daily in classrooms, small group sessions, and one-to-one support, building a culture where reading is celebrated and deeply valued.



Why Talk and Vocabulary Matter 🗣️ 💬

Talking face-to-face with your child in your home language lays the foundation for success in all other languages. Children who are fluent in one language adapt more quickly and effectively when learning another.


Research shows that children exposed to a rich vocabulary from an early age not only become better readers, but also develop stronger knowledge in science, history, and the arts. A restricted vocabulary at age 5 can impact reading, employment, and even wellbeing into adulthood.



Phonics and Early Reading 🔤

Phonics lessons begin in Early Years and continue through Years 1 and 2, ensuring children master sounds, words, and tricky spellings. Guided reading in small groups supports fluency, comprehension, and confidence. Access to class and corridor libraries, along with home readers, helps every child find joy in books.



Guided Reading and VIPERS 🐍

As children progress, guided reading shifts towards deeper comprehension, using our VIPERS framework:


  • Vocabulary

  • Inference

  • Prediction

  • Explanation

  • Retrieval

  • Sequence/Summarise


This ensures children can talk about what they read, connect ideas, and develop critical thinking skills.





Celebrating Reading 📚✨

At ISB, reading is interwoven into every subject and celebrated across the school. Our library, daily reading routines, and culture of shared reading all encourage students to become lifelong readers. Importantly, our student reading outcomes exceed global averages, a testament to the strong foundations built here.


Beyond academics, the benefits of reading are profound:

  • Reduces stress and promotes relaxation

  • Builds empathy and confidence

  • Supports memory and cognitive development

  • Improves sleep and wellbeing



How You Can Support at Home 🏠

Here are some simple but powerful ways to make a difference:


Early Years (Pre-Kindy, Kindy, Reception):

  • Talk, sing, and play with language every day

  • Share stories and rhymes together

  • Encourage children to retell stories in their own words

  • Avoid over-reliance on screens or YouTube for language development



KS1 & KS2:

  • Aim for 20 minutes of reading every day at home

  • Discuss books before, during, and after reading

  • Model reading yourself, let your child see you enjoy books

  • Create bedtime routines that include shared or independent reading

  • Encourage holiday reading with incentives or family challenges



Writing and Reading Go Hand in Hand ✍️

As literacy grows, children must also see themselves as writers. Providing authentic writing opportunities (lists, letters, diaries), valuing their work, and modelling writing at home helps cement reading and language skills.



In Summary

Reading is one of the greatest gifts we can give our children. By working together, school and home, we can ensure that every child at ISB not only becomes a skilled reader but also develops a lifelong love of books.


Thank you for your continued support in making reading such a joyful and important part of your child’s learning journey.




If you have any questions about any aspect of school life, please do not hesitate to message in Seesaw.


Mr Michael Everett | Head of Primary






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🗓️ Tuesday 23rd September - Public Holiday (TBC)

🗓️ Tuesday 7th & Wednesday 8th October - Parent Teacher Consultations

🗓️ Monday 13th - Friday 17th October - Half Term Break

🗓️ Friday 24th October - International Day 🌏

🗓️ Friday 7th November - Celebration of Learning (Open Morning for all)

🗓️ Friday 21st November - Reception, Yr1 & Yr2 Sports Day 🏃

🗓️ Tuesday 25th November - House Games

🗓️ Friday 28th November - Sports Day Yr3, Yr4, Yr5 & Yr6 🏃‍♀️

🗓️ Friday 5th December - Final Day of Term 1


ℹ️ In addition to the events listed above, individual Year Groups will share specific details about trips and activities relevant to their cohort. Please stay up to date by checking the Year Group Notices thread in Seesaw Messages.


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