Overview of Phonics Connect

Current research shows that there is certainly a need for a more systematic approach to the teaching of literacy in Aotearoa and in upskilling our class teachers. Rather than teachers attending a one-day training session, we provide ongoing monitoring and support to ensure a robust and consistent programme is delivered across the school.

Stage 1 of Phonics Connect focuses solely on phonemic awareness. We encourage teachers not to rush this stage as it is the foundation for the whole programme. Ample opportunities are given to students to support their ability to alliterate, rhyme, separate sounds and discriminate between sounds (environmental and speech). Correct letter formation from the start is also a focus of the Phonics Connect Programme. To support teachers with phonemic awareness we have provided supplementary activities and ideas to support all aspects of phonological awareness on our website.