Exceptional reading success is being celebrated after the Witheridge Academy was named in the top one per cent of the country.

Witheridge Church of England Primary Academy has been recognised by the Rt Hon Nick Gibb MP, Minister of State for School Standards.

 

The key stage two (KS2) results, as published in December, show that 100 per cent of the pupils reached or exceeded the expected standard in reading at the end of KS2.

Young readers and teachers at Witheridge Academy put their success down to several factors. Firstly, the implementation of their whole class reading scheme where all children in the class regularly have access to the same high-quality text which they analyse and discuss as a class. Witheridge Academy also emphasises developing reading for pleasure through whole-class storytime right through from pre-school to year six while also participating in national events that celebrate reading, such as World Book Day. 

To ensure that the standards of reading remain high and children continue to enjoy reading, Witheridge’s PTA has donated £500.00 to the school towards the purchase of new books.

(Image: Witheridge CofE Primary)

Head of school Lucy Ratcliffe is very proud of the results and said: “We were delighted to receive this letter in recognition of all the hard work we have put into the teaching of reading over the last few years at Witheridge Primary Academy. 

“We continue to promote a love of reading, and this has had a positive impact on our results.

 

“We were at the time, and continue to be, incredibly proud of the year six children who sat their SATS tests last year and enjoy hearing about their continued development as they move through their education. 

“I would like to personally thank all the staff at Witheridge Primary Academy for their continued hard work and dedication to the education and development of all children at our school.”

 

(Image: Witheridge CofE Primary)

In his letter, Rt Hon Nick Gibb said: “I would like to congratulate you, your staff and your pupils on the very high standard of achievement.

“The Government wants to ensure that every child has the fluency in reading necessary to prepare them for a successful secondary education and beyond, which is why I was delighted to see your results.

“Thank you for your work in continuing the drive towards higher academic standards, and congratulations again to you and your staff for your commitment and success.”

 

https://www.devonlive.com/news/local-news/young-bookworms-witheridge-praised-being-3821249