Shocklach Oviatt CE Primary School – Pathways to Spell – Case Study

About the school: A small school in rural Cheshire

Number of classes: 4

Number on roll: 81

The Challenge:

Where do I start! I have been teaching for 20 years and had never found a good way of teaching spelling before.

I enjoy the interactive methods for helping children to remember the spellings and feel like it makes it easy for children who would ordinarily struggle.

Mastery Approach:

Pupils enjoy their spelling sessions. Pupils have success in spellings both in tests and implemented in books. Some really complex words are spelt accurately.

Pupils are into a routine for their daily spelling sessions and if they don’t have time to look at spellings at home they can still have success in their weekly spellings tests (which we add in additionally).

We use using Unlocking Letters and Sounds for our SSP. Children start Pathways to Spell in Y2 – it’s the first year we have used this phonics scheme so it is early days, but up to now they have transitioned well.

The Impact:

The planning is clear and easy for TAs to follow.

Spelling rules are explained well with good examples – there is no additional research required. Pathways to Spell has reduced teacher workload significantly.

It is cost effective – Pathways to Spell is not expensive at all. It is easy to deliver, enjoyable for the children and has creative ideas.

Shocklach Oviatt CE Primary