our reading philosophy at gentleshaw
“Reading gives us someplace to go when we have to stay where we are”
Reading enables children to learn about the world around them- through reading they learn about people, places and events outside of their own experience, developing their imagination, empathy and understanding. Children who read often will have improved vocabulary and highly developed language skills all improving their ability to write well. At Gentleshaw we aim to teach our pupils to read fluently and with good understanding, being enthusiastic, engaged and driven readers. We place high value on instilling a love of reading and books, igniting a true passion for literature within our pupils. We promote reading a wide range of different authors, genres and texts to broaden children’s experiences and knowledge.
Staff favourites
At Gentleshaw it’s not just the children who love reading, the adults do too (we even have a budding author within our school staff)! We pride ourselves on being positive reading role models, as so many of us know how literature can hold a special place in your heart even for many years to come.
We asked our staff what their favourite children’s books are and why…
Brown Bear, Brown Bear by Eric Carle
“This book is special to me because I used to read it to my twin boys when they were little. They loved it so much that they would request it every night!”
Mrs Deuter
Elmer by David McKee
“I remember my nursery teacher reading Elmer to us! Even now I read it to my little nephews.”
Miss Whitworth
The Jolly Postman by Janet & Allan Ahlberg
“This was my favourite story when I was a child. I loved the envelopes and letters inside. It is also a favourite with my class.”
Mrs Armiger
Giraffes Can’t Dance by Giles Andreae
“It’s a feel good story that I enjoyed reading when I was at school and now I love reading it to my class!”
Miss Spencer
The Slightly Annoying Elephant by David Walliams
“I like this book because when I read it to my class, they are so engaged and we share lots of giggles. It's lovely!”
Miss Martin