Eastbury Community School has seen strong progress for disadvantaged pupils

Why did you choose Sounds-Write?

We chose Sounds-Write because it is an evidence-based programme that aligns precisely with how children learn to read and spell. It supports children to develop a secure understanding of the alphabetic code, which was a key priority for us in raising standards and closing gaps, particularly for disadvantaged pupils and those at risk of falling behind.

Unlike other schemes we have used previously, Sounds-Write does not overload children with incidental or implicit learning. Everything is explicit, systematic, and purposeful, which has had a significant impact on both pupil confidence and outcomes.

The training gave staff a deep and secure understanding of how reading and spelling work, why some commonly used approaches are ineffective, and how to deliver lessons with precision and fidelity. Staff valued that the training was research-informed yet highly practical, with strategies that could be implemented immediately in the classroom. As a phonics lead, the training also enabled me to coach staff effectively, quality assure practice, and address misconceptions across the school.

How did you implement Sounds-Write?

We implemented Sounds-Write strategically and incrementally, beginning in EYFS before embedding it consistently into KS1. From the outset, we ensured that:

• All staff were trained before delivering the programme.
• Expectations around lesson structure, routines, and language were clear and consistent.
• Assessment, keep-up, and intervention were built into the timetable.

What has the impact been on staff and students?

Staff response has been overwhelmingly positive. Teachers and support staff consistently report that the structure removes ambiguity and increases confidence, lessons are focused, purposeful, and efficient, and children make rapid progress, which is motivating for both staff and pupils.

Because the majority of staff are trained, there is a shared professional language, and teaching assistants can actively support learning rather than simply supervise.

The impact on pupil outcomes has been significant, including:

• improved phonics outcomes across EYFS and KS1
• faster identification of gaps through robust assessment
• strong progress for disadvantaged pupils and those requiring intervention
• increased confidence in both reading and spelling

Children are now able to decode unfamiliar words independently, and spelling reflects secure phoneme–grapheme knowledge rather than guesswork.

How have you ensured Sounds-Write has been implemented effectively?

Sounds-Write works so effectively in our school because it is treated as a long-term strategic commitment, not a short-term initiative.

We have made a significant investment into training all adults across the school, ensuring consistency, shared understanding, and high expectations at every level. This commitment has been key to embedding the programme successfully and sustaining high-quality delivery over time.

Our practice has been externally validated through Challenge Partners, with schools from different boroughs visiting us to observe Sounds-Write in action. These visits have provided opportunities for professional dialogue and have reinforced the strength and consistency of our approach.

We protect fidelity through whole-school training and ongoing CPD, regular quality assurance and coaching, and purposeful use of assessment to drive teaching and intervention.

What is your advice to other schools?

• Invest fully in training for all staff – this is essential.
• Treat phonics as a whole-school priority, not just an EYFS/KS1 responsibility.
• Maintain fidelity to the programme.
• Ensure leaders understand the theory that underpins the practice.