Tutor Time Reading Programme

‘Reading is important because if you can read, you can learn anything about everything and everything about anything’ - Tomie dePaola 

Every morning, after Roll Call, students in years 7-10 go with their tutor to take part in our unique reading programme. The teachers read aloud for 15 minutes, while students follow the literature with a bookmark. Reading aloud allows for exposure to countless words and phrases which are not found in every day dialogue as well as the social experience of reading together, which builds a sense of community and belonging.

Students read a range of carefully selected classic stories and non-fiction texts from different cultures, traditions and time periods. This wide range has enabled challenging themes to be explored and discussed and has, and continues to immerse them in different worlds and perspectives. On a journey down the corridors and into the classrooms of Henley Bank High School you will witness a Tutor Time Reading Programme which has created a sense of calm, focus and a genuine love of reading.

We are incredibly proud to be a beacon school in implementing a programme on such a scale as this. Its positive impact can already be seen. With the energy and commitment invested by each member of staff we have reaped huge gains, both on an academic and a pastoral level. 

Strategies for supporting your child at home:

Be interested- ask about the book daily – plot, characters, themes, predictions 

Be sensitive- ensure students have chance to discuss delicate themes that arise

Be aware- feel free to purchase and read the book that your child is reading (as long as they don’t jump ahead in the book beyond their peers!) 

Be relaxed- offer a calm, stress-free environment that cultivates enthusiasm and a joy of reading

Be an example- let your child see you reading for pleasure on a regular basis at home