We use research-based evidence to guide and enhance the promotion of literacy across our school. This approach is embedded in initiatives such as our Keyword Kickstart program, as well as a variety of engaging literacy games, all designed to strengthen vocabulary, comprehension, and communication skills. By combining proven strategies with interactive and enjoyable activities, we ensure that literacy development is both effective and motivating for every student.

Our school’s Keyword Kickstart Programme is delivered once a week during form time for each year group, designed to strengthen students’ vocabulary, reading, and writing skills across all subjects. The programme focuses on key literacy activities such as sight word recognition and spelling drills, reading comprehension checks, sentence construction using keywords, cloze exercises, and phonological and morphological awareness.

To deepen understanding, keywords are shared with students at the beginning of each term and clearly displayed in classrooms and revisited throughout the term to promote recall and reinforce learning. This consistent exposure helps students build confidence, improve word recognition, and apply their growing vocabulary in context—supporting success in every area of the curriculum.

Below is an example of a session that is delivered weekly: