At River Tees Hospital School, we recognise that reading is a fundamental skill that serves as the foundation for learning and personal development. For pupils with complex medical needs, access to high-quality reading lessons is essential in promoting not only literacy but also overall wellbeing and confidence.
Our reading curriculum is designed to engage pupils in a variety of texts, fostering a love for reading while providing the necessary skills to decode and comprehend written language. We prioritise systematic phonics instruction, ensuring that every pupil can develop strong word-reading skills through structured, direct teaching. This approach is tailored to meet individual needs, allowing pupils to progress at their own pace and build a solid foundation for literacy.
We understand that reading is not just about decoding words; it also involves comprehension and the ability to engage with texts meaningfully. Our curriculum incorporates a wide range of reading materials, including fiction, non-fiction, and visual texts, to capture the interests of all pupils. We aim to create a rich reading environment that encourages exploration and discussion, helping pupils connect with stories and information relevant to their lives.


