Children start school with a set of experiences and we endeavour to capture these for each family as they are unique, our role is to build on these experiences for each child.  At St Mary's we have built a language-rich environment where adults talk with children regularly throughout the day, and where children are given opportunities to be involved in a variety of conversations. This boosts their vocabulary awareness and supports with comprehension.

• Pupils participate in the local library's recycled art projects
• Twice a year we hold 'Secret Reader' to build awe and wonder into our reading
• The library bus visits school and children can select texts with their library card
• We have paired reading opportunities throughout the term
• Every week we welcome our Reading Champion into Acorn Class
• This year we welcomed Chris Connaughton for an author visit
• We hold early reading and phonics workshops for parents
• We hold 'Working in Partnership' sessions every half term for families to share children's learning journeys and celebrate their work
• Host annual Art Galleries for the local community to share our fabulous work
• World Book Day
• Reading records as this is encouraging children to ask adults to read at home with them – this is also discussed at parents evening
• Participate in Poetry Slams with our Trust Schools
• Hosts events such as 'Books, Blankets and Biscuits'
• Welcome visitors into school such as Space Man Mike and John from Power2Inspire
• Promotion of culture throughout the academic year mapped out to the curriculum
• We are now working in partnership with a school in Ghana