Read Write Inc Phonics
Read Write Inc. (RWI) Phonics at Our School
Phonics Lead: N. Waterworth (office@windmillcofeprimary.co.uk)
What is RWI Phonics?
Read Write Inc. Phonics (RWI) is the systematic synthetic phonics programme we use to teach children how to read, write, and spell. Its clear, structured approach helps all children—including those with additional needs—make progress in early reading.
How Does RWI Support Your Child?
Through RWI, children learn to:
Hear and say the sounds in words (phonics)
Blend sounds together to read words fluently
Enjoy lively, fully decodable storybooks
Write and spell confidently using phonics strategies
Lessons build on each other, and children are regularly assessed to ensure they’re learning in groups that match their current level.
Supporting Your Child at Home
We see the biggest progress when children practise little and often at home, alongside their daily phonics lessons in school. Here’s how you can help:
Listen to your child read their RWI Storybook every day
These books match the sounds they’re learning in school and help build reading fluency. Children practise reading their RWI book during the day with their teacher and again at home, which really helps build confidence.
Use pure sounds
For example, say “m” not “muh”, “s” not “suh” when sounding out words. This helps your child blend sounds more easily.
Play sound games and encourage ‘Fred Talk’
Sound out words together (e.g., c-a-t for “cat”) to reinforce phonics skills.
Watch phonics videos together
There are short films available that explain sounds and reading strategies step-by-step.
Practise with QR codes sent home by teachers
Teachers regularly send home QR codes that link to videos and activities for practising specific sounds and words. These resources are tailored to the sounds your child is learning in class, making it easy for you to support their progress at home.
Accessing RWI Books and Quizzes on Oxford Owl
You can access RWI books and quizzes online through Oxford Owl, covering every stage from the Learning to Blend books right up to grey level. Oxford Owl provides a wide range of RWI resources, so your child can practise reading and take quizzes at home, supporting their progress and confidence.
How to Log In to Oxford Owl
Go to https://www.oxfordowl.co.uk.
Click on ‘Log in’ at the top right of the page.
Select ‘Students’ and enter the class login details provided by your child’s teacher. (If you do not have the login details, please contact your child’s teacher or the school office.)
Once logged in, navigate to the ‘eBooks’ section and select ‘Read Write Inc.’ to access the full range of RWI books and quizzes.
Helpful Resources for Parents
https://www.ruthmiskin.com/parentsandcarers/: Guides, videos, and tips for practising phonics at home.
https://www.ruthmiskin.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Parent-FAQs.pdf: Practical answers to common questions about RWI at home.
Virtual Classroom: Lessons and tutorials you can watch together to support at-home learning.
What to Expect Each Year
Reception & Year 1: Daily phonics lessons and early reading practice.
Year 1 Phonics Screening Check: RWI builds the skills children need to succeed in this national check.
Years 2 and beyond: Continued support for children who are still building reading fluency.
Years 5 & 6: Children who need extra support with reading and writing can access RWI Fresh Start, a targeted programme designed to help older pupils develop essential literacy skills and confidence.
A Final Thought
We know learning to read can feel tricky at times, but RWI gives children clear steps and lots of success along the way. With consistent routines and plenty of support, we aim to help every child thrive in reading. If you’re ever unsure about sounds, books, or how to help at home, please don’t hesitate to ask — we’re always happy to help. You can chat to your child’s class teacher or contact our Reading Lead, Miss Waterworth.
Set 2: Green and Purple Levels
Set 3: Pink, Orange, Yellow, Blue and Grey Levels
