Literacy

Reading at The Meadows Academy: Our Commitment
Reading is the key to learning and success. At The Meadows Academy, we want every child to become a confident reader because reading opens doors — to education, opportunities, and life beyond school.

What We Do
  • Reading Every Day
    We make reading part of every subject, not just English. Students read regularly in lessons and tutor time.
  • Building Vocabulary
    We teach important words that help students understand instructions and texts across all subjects.
  • Extra Support
    If your child needs help, we provide targeted programmes like Fresh Start to build confidence and skills.
  • Reading for Pleasure
    Through our We Are Readers campaign, we encourage reading for enjoyment with book clubs, library access, and reading celebrations.

How You Can Help at Home
  • Encourage 10–15 minutes of reading daily.
  • Talk about books — ask what they’re reading and what they enjoy.
  • Let them see you reading too.
  • Visit the library together.
  • Celebrate every bit of progress.
Oracy at The Meadows Academy: Our Commitment
Being able to speak clearly and confidently is just as important as reading and writing. At The Meadows Academy, we want every child to develop strong communication skills because speaking well helps them learn, express themselves, and succeed in life.

What We Do
  • Confidence as Speakers
    Students practise speaking in front of others through assemblies, presentations, and reading aloud.
  • Speak Like an Expert
    In every subject, students use key vocabulary to explain ideas and sound like experts.
  • Discussion and Debate
    We encourage structured conversations and debates to build listening and thinking skills.
  • Real-World Communication
    Opportunities like school council and community events help students practise speaking beyond the classroom.

How You Can Help at Home
  • Ask your child to tell you about their day or explain something they’ve learned.
  • Encourage them to use new words they’ve picked up in school.
  • Give them chances to speak in different settings — family gatherings, phone calls, or ordering food.
  • Praise their efforts when they speak confidently.
 
Contact
The Meadows Academy
Whitworth Road
Spennymoor
County Durham
DL16 7QW

Email: themeadows@horizonstrust.org.uk
Tel: 01388 811178

Information

Horizons Specialist Academy Trust is a company limited by guarantee (Company No 08608287) and exempt charity registered in England and Wales.

Website by Rivo Agency