Literacy Overview

At Our Lady’s, we believe that literacy is the foundation for learning. One of our core aims, therefore, is to ensure that every student develops the knowledge and skills to be able to read, write and communicate effectively. We believe this will enable all students to engage fully in the curriculum, express themselves with confidence, and thrive beyond school. 

Disciplinary literacy approach 

As a school, we recognise that literacy looks different in each subject. How we read, write and communicate in science, for example, is different to how we do this in history or art. Through our disciplinary literacy approach, we explicitly teach students both the general and subject-specific skills for them to succeed in every lesson. Rather than an “add on”, therefore, literacy is an integral part of our curriculum. 

What this looks like in the classroom

• Teachers model and teach the vocabulary and language structures unique to their subject
• Students are supported to read and respond to challenging, subject-specific texts
• Writing tasks are designed to develop precision, clarity, and subject-appropriate style 
• Discussion and oracy are used to strengthen reasoning, explanation, and confidence in communication 

How can you support at home?

Parents and carers play a vital role in developing literacy beyond the classroom. You can support your child by: 

• Creating a reading-friendly environment at home by making books, magazines or newspaper easily available 
• Modelling reading yourself: children who see adults reading are more likely to view reading as enjoyable and valuable 
• Reading together regularly: even though your child is growing older it is still incredibly important to read with them if they require that support. If your child is becoming more independent and happily reads on their own then regularly asking them about what they are reading helps to reinforce the value of reading. 
• Provide opportunities to experience language: visits to the theatre, museums, or public lectures can help your child see how reading, writing and speaking connect to the wider world. Similarly, discussing the latest news and current events with students helps students to