Ysgol Tir Morfa

At Tir Morfa, reading is a central component of the school’s total communication approach and makes a strong contribution to pupils’ communication, independence and well-being. Leaders and staff share a clear and inclusive understanding of reading that extends beyond print to include symbols, signing, objects of reference, gesture and digital icons. This shared understanding underpins consistent and effective practice across the school.Provision for early reading is a significant strength. Staff use well-established visual, symbolic and object-based approaches that enable pupils at the earliest stages of development, including those with complex communication needs, to engage meaningfully with texts and symbols. Teaching of reading is systematic, carefully structured and personalised, informed by consistent use of assessment information that is shared effectively across staff to ensure appropriate challenge and support. Leaders ensure continuity of provision, including where pupils are awaiting specialist input.Where appropriate, pupils develop phonological awareness, decoding and early comprehension through well-paced daily sessions and consistent routines. Staff make purposeful links between reading, writing and real-life contexts, enabling pupils to apply skills meaningfully. Reading is embedded effectively across the curriculum through practical and engaging activities that promote enjoyment, confidence and independence.Leadership of reading is strong and strategically focused. Leaders monitor impact rigorously and provide clear direction for improvement. As a result, most pupils make very strong progress from their starting points, with some achieving accelerated gains, and increasingly use reading to support everyday communication, participation and independence.