Reading at Castleton

At Castleton, we are committed to making sure that children become engaged from the beginning of their time with us. When they share stories, their imagination sparks and their curiosity is stimulated. As they learn to read, their vocabulary expands and they gain a greater understanding of the meaning of words. As they gain confidence and independence, they can read about the world, people and places around them. When children become good at reading, they learn more. It improves communication skills and encourages empathy and compassion.     

Please find our autumn 1 reading spine Virtual Library! Click on a book to find either watch it being read, or read it yourself!

Our 'Reading Spine'

We know that our role in promoting a love of reading is vital and we make sure that we select the right books to help all children to thrive. To achieve this, we have developed our own “Castleton Reading Spine”.

This spine contains the stories and books that Castleton children encounter during their journey with us. These texts have been carefully selected and sequenced to reflect stories that will ignite children’s imagination, as well as books about the lives of those whose experiences and perspectives differ from their own. These stories are shared, discussed, read, re-read and enjoyed in story times and dedicated reading time as well as across the curriculum. The Castleton Reading Spine also reflects the wider curriculum, including titles that will enhance children’s learning in other subjects.

As a school we use Lexplore Analytics to assess children's reading. 

Click on the Lexplore picture to find out more about how we do this

Class Libraries 

Our class libraries have recently been replenished with new and current titles as well as well-loved classics and books by established authors. All our children have access to their class library so they can borrow books to enjoy at home.

Reading at home

Children benefit hugely from listening to family members read aloud to them. Watch the film below for top tips for reading stories with your child.

Rhymes, poems and songs help to strengthen children’s vocabulary and build their connection to language. By picking up rhythms, their awareness and control of their voices is developed.

Click on the film below to listen to some traditional nursery rhymes.

Useful Website Links

Click on the images to take you to some useful reading resources!