Foundational Skills

At Golborne High School, we believe that strong foundations unlock future success. Our Foundational Skills Strategy ensures that every pupil develops the essential knowledge and skills needed to thrive across the curriculum and beyond, including reading, communication, numeracy, spelling and handwriting.

Reading is at the heart of our approach because it is the gateway to success in every subject. Through dedicated reading lessons in year 7, structured reading strategies in every classroom, targeted interventions and a vocabulary-rich curriculum, we develop pupils' fluency, confidence and comprehension. By supporting pupils at every stage of their reading journey, we ensure they can access the full curriculum, think critically and become lifelong readers. Through high-quality teaching, targeted intervention and regular assessment, we identify and address gaps early so that all pupils can access learning confidently. This includes a synthetic phonics programme and Lexia intervention for our pupils reading below their recommended age-related reading age.

Reading, literacy and communication are embedded across every subject with numeracy embedded into relevant subjects, supported by specialist programmes, digital learning tools and enrichment opportunities.

By combining excellent classroom practice with personalised support, we help every pupil build the confidence, independence and foundational knowledge needed for academic achievement, personal development and successful preparation for adulthood.