Reading

At ASJ, we use Pathways to Read to support our whole‑school approach to developing confident, fluent and enthusiastic readers. Pathways to Read is a high‑quality reading programme designed to equip children from Year 2 onwards with the key skills they need to move steadily through the reading process and become competent, thoughtful readers.

The programme follows a mastery approach, offering clear, detailed planning and a carefully sequenced progression of skills from Year 2 to Year 6. Each unit is built around a high‑quality text and provides engaging, purposeful reading lessons that help children deepen their understanding of language and develop strong comprehension skills. Units last for half a term and include six whole‑class reading sessions, ensuring consistency and structure across the school.

Pathways to Read also guarantees full coverage of the National Curriculum, with a strong emphasis on rich vocabulary, high‑quality discussion and links to writing . This supports our commitment at ASJ to nurturing children who not only read with accuracy and fluency, but who also enjoy books, talk confidently about what they read, and make meaningful connections across the curriculum.

By using Pathways to Read, we ensure that every child at ASJ is supported to flourish as a reader—developing the skills, confidence and love of reading that will stay with them for life.

Reading for Pleasure

Reading for pleasure is a powerful way to nurture lifelong learning. It builds children’s vocabulary, empathy, imagination, and resilience, and is strongly linked to academic success across all subjects. At ASJ, we encourage children to enjoy books in all forms—whether curled up with a favourite story or exploring new genres with friends. When adults read aloud, it brings stories to life, models fluent reading, and helps children develop listening skills, emotional literacy, and a deeper love of language. Sharing books together creates special moments and lays the foundation for confident, joyful readers.

At ASJ, we end each day with our much‑loved class novel time. This daily slot gives children the chance to unwind and enjoy listening to their teacher read aloud. Sharing stories in this way helps build vocabulary, strengthens listening skills, and nurtures a genuine love of reading. It’s a calm, joyful moment in the school day where books come to life and children finish feeling connected, settled, and inspired.

Just One More...

At ASJ, our Just One More... initiative is a KS2-wide reading challenge designed to spark curiosity and celebrate a love of books. Using the ‘Books for Topics’ Top 50 Reads for each year group, children are encouraged to explore a wide range of authors, genres, and themes—aiming to read as many titles as they can from their list. Every five books read earns a certificate, with special prizes awarded to top readers at the end of the year. These carefully chosen books promote empathy, cultural awareness, and personal growth, while supporting learning across the curriculum. It’s all about discovering new favourites and saying, “Just one more!”

For more information, take a look at the information shared during our 'Book & Brew' morning.